IDF Eliminates 6, Apprehends 5 Hamas Terrorists Emerging From Rafah Tunnel

Latest Developments

• Rafah Strike: The IDF announced on November 21 that it had eliminated six Hamas terrorists from a group of 15 who emerged from a tunnel in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, in IDF-held territory east of the “Yellow Line.” Additionally, five other terrorists were apprehended after they surrendered to IDF forces in the area. Ahead of the incident, approximately 200 Hamas terrorists were estimated to be hiding in tunnels in the Rafah area, with the United States and Israel negotiating in recent weeks the best course of action to resolve the threat.
• Anti-Hamas Gazan Militias Wish for Role in Future Government: Anti-Hamas Gaza-based militias are reportedly seeking a role in the future government of Gaza, in coordination with the U.S.-spearheaded “Board of Peace,” the international body that would serve as the interim government in Gaza, according to President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for the enclave. In a recent video published by the Popular Forces, a militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab operating in the Rafah area of Gaza, a representative discussed how the group’s operations could be compatible with the Board of Peace, which is yet to be established. Separately, Hossam al-Astal, who leads an anti-Hamas militia near Khan Younis called the Counter-Terrorism Strike Force, told Israeli media that American representatives assured him that his group would be part of Gaza’s future police force.
• Security Cabinet Forms Team To Oversee Phase 2 of Gaza Plan: The Israeli security cabinet voted on November 20 to form a government committee responsible for overseeing phase two of the Gaza ceasefire. This next phase, which will likely stipulate Hamas’s disarmament and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force in the enclave, is set to be negotiated between Israel and Hamas only after the Iran-backed terrorist organization releases the remaining three deceased hostages it still holds. The Israeli team will reportedly include Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

FDD Expert Response

“The elimination of Hamas terrorists emerging from Rafah tunnels is positive progress toward countering the threat posed by a 200-member-strong cell still holding out underneath the Israeli-controlled area. Likewise, the five detained Hamas operatives will likely be able to provide Israel with actionable intelligence on the whereabouts of the remaining members of the cell and assist the IDF in formulating a plan to neutralize the threat posed by the holdouts.” — Aaron Goren, Research Analyst and Editor

“Anti-Hamas militias led by figures such as Hossam al-Astal and Yasser Abu Shabab are signaling their intent to shape Gaza’s postwar order. For Jerusalem and Washington, these groups may appear to offer a short-term alternative to Hamas, but their rise may carry significant long-term risks. Nothing ensures that today’s anti-Hamas militias will not evolve into tomorrow’s entrenched armed factions, replicating the very conditions that enabled Hamas to dominate Gaza.” — Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst and Editor at FDD’s Long War Journal

FDD Background and Analysis

“Qatar Claims Israeli Strikes in Response to Gaza Shooting May Upend Ceasefire,” FDD Flash Brief

“Trump’s Gaza peace plan is doomed — unless he shuts down terror-boosting UNRWA,” by Enia Krivine and Richard Goldberg

“Hamas rejects UNSC vote endorsing key aspects of 20-point plan for Gaza,” by Samuel Ben-Ur and Aaron Goren

“IDF destroys more Hamas tunnels, prepares for future Gaza operations,” by Seth J. Frantzman