Israel’s military has destroyed tunnels used by Hamas to bring weapons into Gaza. This is happening as Israel continues its offensive in the city of Rafah.
- Israel says the tunnels were a “lifeline” for Hamas to smuggle “murderous weapons.”
- Israel took control of an area called the Philadelphia Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border
- At least 20 tunnels were destroyed to stop weapons from being smuggled into Gaza
- Fighting is expected to continue for the rest of the year, according to Israeli officials
Have you been following the latest updates from the conflict in Gaza?
Israel Strikes Hamas Tunnels and Weapons
Israel’s airstrikes and ground forces targeted Hamas tunnels and weapons caches in Rafah. This was part of their ongoing military operation against Hamas in Gaza.
Israeli spokesperson David Mener said the main goals are:
- “Destroying Hamas and defeating them”
- Getting back captured Israeli soldiers held by Hamas
- Ensuring Gaza “never again poses a threat” to Israel
He stated Israel took control of the “Philadelphia Corridor” area bordering Egypt. This blocked off around 50 tunnels that Hamas used to smuggle in rockets and other weapons.
Civilian Deaths Amid Fighting
The fighting has led to civilian deaths in Gaza, including over 40 Palestinians killed in an Israeli airstrike on Sunday. Mener said the civilians died in a “tragic incident” when an airstrike accidentally hit a weapons dump near wanted Hamas militants.
He defended Israel’s actions, saying the weapons were “aimed at my people” and that Israel must “destroy this terrorist organization” Hamas to restore peace.
The United States has expressed concern that killing civilians could “undermine” Israel’s goals. But Mener said the U.S. and other allies understand Israel is “on the front line” against groups like Hamas.
Political Tensions in Israel
There is debate within Israel over the government’s handling of the conflict. While some support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s tough stance, others criticize him over the inability to free captured Israeli soldiers.
An estimated 60% think Netanyahu wants to prolong the war rather than work for the soldiers’ release. His political standing has dropped amid large protests over the crisis.
How do you think the situation in Gaza will unfold from here? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
