NewsIsrael uncovers Hamas's largest secret: A $1m tunnel fit for vehicle transportation to Gaza

Israel uncovers Hamas's largest secret: A $1m tunnel fit for vehicle transportation to Gaza

Tunnel near the Erez border crossing
Tunnel near the Erez border crossing
Images source: © PAP | PAP/EPA/ATEF SAFADI

4:39 PM EST, December 18, 2023

This vast tunnel is, according to the IDF, the largest one discovered thus far belonging to Hamas. It's situated near the Erez border crossing, "The Times of Israel" reports. Uncovered by the IDF on Sunday, the tunnel stretches 2.5 miles at its longest points and reaches approximately 164 feet underground, appearing spacious enough for vehicle transportation.

A shaft of the tunnel was located merely 437 yards from the Erez border crossing. "The Times of Israel", referring to statements from the IDF, reported that over the past few weeks, the elite "Yahalom" Combat Engineering Corps and the Northern Brigade of the Gaza Division have used advanced intelligence and technological resources to identify this "strategic" tunnel network. The shafts were reportedly searched and cleared of potential threats.

"This is the most substantial tunnel we've uncovered in the Gaza Strip. It was planned to assault the Erez border crossing," stated IDF spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, as quoted by Reuters. He did not specify if this tunnel was utilized in the attack by Hamas on October 7. "This tunnel is a significant investment, costing millions of dollars and years to construct. It's built in such a way to allow vehicles to drive through," he added.

As reported by Reuters, Hagari presented journalists with a recording featuring Mohammed Sinwar, the brother of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who is allegedly shown driving inside the tunnel.