Israeli Forces Demolish Largest Terror Tunnel in Northern Gaza

Latest Developments

Israeli troops demolished the largest terror tunnel they have found in northern Gaza since October 7, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on March 5. The tunnel stretched for more than two miles underground, and numerous branches extended from it. “The IDF carried out exploration operations of the tunnel route, which reached a maximum depth of about 50 meters,” The Jerusalem Post reported. “The nearest shaft of the tunnel is located about 400 meters from the Erez crossing, which has been used for the passage of workers and patients for medical treatment in Israel in recent years.” Israel uncovered the tunnel, one of hundreds constructed by Hamas for terrorist purposes, in December.

Expert Analysis

“The Hamas terror tunnels must be destroyed to reduce the threat that Hamas and other terrorist groups pose from Gaza. Hamas uses tunnels to hide its terrorists and also to transport weapons and hostages. The tunnels often stretch under civilian homes and areas, posing a danger to civilian life in Gaza. Additionally, tunnels have been found under hospitals and universities.” — Seth J. Frantzman, FDD Adjunct Fellow

“Intelligence has played a significant role in this war. Israel has been successful at identifying major tunnel networks, including other key terrorist infrastructure, using a range of information-gathering techniques. As the IDF continues to advance into Gaza, intelligence will remain crucial and could potentially lead to locating more tunnel networks and the whereabouts of Hamas leaders.” — Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst at FDD’s Long War Journal

Israeli Forces Confront Terror Threats in Northern Gaza

Israel continues to confront terrorist threats in northern Gazan neighborhoods such as Beit Hanoun, the IDF said on March 5. Over the past day, the IDF identified and struck a Hamas terrorist cell flying a drone in Beit Hanoun. Hamas has continued to use drones since its October 7 attack on Israel.

The IDF operated in Beit Hanoun during the first phase of its ground operations in Gaza in November 2023. The IDF has been returning to northern Gaza to eliminate any new terror threats that may exist. For instance, over the past week, the IDF has also been operating in Zaytun, a neighborhood southwest of Gaza City, uncovering rocket launch sites and terror tunnels.

Related Analysis

“Israeli Forces Raid Residences of Hamas Commanders, Capture Terrorists,” FDD Flash Brief

“Evacuated Israelis Begin Returning to Homes Near Gaza,” FDD Flash Brief

“IDF Uncovers 10-km Tunnel in Gaza,” FDD Flash Brief