IDF Dismantles Hamas Terror Infrastructure, Uncovers Giant Tunnel

Latest Developments

The Israeli military continued to target Hamas infrastructure in Gaza on December 18, seizing five million shekels in cash and targeting terror tunnels, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. “During IDF operational activity in Jabalya, IDF troops located 5,000,000 NIS worth of funds designated for terrorist activity inside a senior Hamas terrorist’s residence. The funds were found in suitcases alongside numerous weapons,” the IDF stated. The IDF said it also struck a site where weapons were located. Israeli forces also found mortars and ammunition in a basement. “Terror tunnel shafts and launch pits in the area were also destroyed,” the IDF added.

Expert Analysis

“Hamas terror infrastructure threatens Israel and civilians in Gaza. For a decade and a half, Hamas controlled Gaza, stockpiled weapons, and funneled cash to its terrorist cells and tunnels. Israel is now uprooting this terrorist infrastructure in difficult fighting that involves uncovering tunnels and seizing weapons Hamas stockpiled. This is a long and complex process, and Israel must have the support and time necessary to continue to remove these threats.” — Seth J. Frantzman, FDD Adjunct Fellow

“The Israeli military is slowly revealing the extensive military infrastructure constructed by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups within the Gaza Strip. This mounting evidence demonstrates that Hamas allocated exorbitant funds toward tunnel networks and other military infrastructure rather than addressing the pressing needs and welfare of civilians in the Gaza Strip.” — Joe Truzman, Research Analyst at FDD’s Long War Journal.

Massive Terror Tunnel Uncovered in Gaza

On December 17, the IDF revealed the largest Hamas terror tunnel discovered during the war in Gaza. “This massive tunnel system branches out and spans well over four kilometers (2.5 miles). Its entrance is located only 400 meters (1,310 feet) from the Erez crossing — used by Gazans on a daily basis to enter Israel for work and medical treatment in Israeli hospitals,” the IDF said. A video released by the IDF also showed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s brother driving through the tunnel. The Erez crossing was one of the locations Hamas attacked during the terror group’s October 7 massacre. The crossing was damaged in the attack.

IDF Carries Out 150 Airstrikes Against Terrorists

Israel conducted 150 airstrikes in Gaza between December 17 and 18, the IDF noted in a statement. An Israeli drone struck a terrorist operative in Khan Younis. Also in Khan Younis, Israeli ground troops directed a helicopter strike against a Hamas cell, the IDF said. The Israeli navy also conducted strikes in Gaza to support ground troops operating along the coast, according to the IDF.

Related Analysis

“Most Israelis Want Out of Post-War Gaza Governance, Poll Shows,” FDD Flash Brief

“Israel Reminds World How to Quickly End the Gaza War,” FDD Flash Brief

“Hamas Shells Jerusalem, Also Hits Ramallah,” FDD Flash Brief