Israeli Forces Eliminate Dozens of Militants in Gaza Tunnel Assault

The Israeli military confirmed a major operation in Gaza this week. Its forces killed over 40 Palestinian militants in targeted raids. The operations focused on tunnel networks near the southern city of Rafah.

According to military statements, troops have concentrated efforts in eastern Rafah for 40 days. The goal is to dismantle underground tunnel routes used by militants. This latest escalation highlights the ongoing conflict.

Ceasefire Tensions Amid Underground Standoff

The situation remains highly volatile. Dozens of Hamas fighters remain in tunnels beneath Israeli-controlled areas. A US-brokered ceasefire is currently in effect, but both sides accuse the other of violations.

Hamas has publicly acknowledged its fighters are trapped. The group has called on mediating countries to pressure Israel for their safe passage. A prominent Hamas member estimated 60 to 80 fighters are in the tunnel network.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza Strip

The broader impact of the conflict is severe. The Gaza health ministry reports over 70,000 Palestinian deaths since the war began. These figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

The war started after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7. That attack resulted in 1,221 Israeli deaths. The retaliatory assault has plunged Gaza into a deep humanitarian crisis.

The ongoing Gaza tunnel operations represent a critical phase in the conflict. Israel aims to dismantle Hamas’s underground infrastructure completely. The outcome will significantly influence the region’s future stability.

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What is the current status of the ceasefire?

The US-brokered ceasefire is technically in force. However, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating its terms, creating a fragile situation.

How many militants are still in the tunnels?

Hamas officials estimate between 60 to 80 fighters remain in the tunnel network. These fighters are located on the Israeli-controlled side of the withdrawal line.

What sparked the latest Gaza war?

The conflict was initiated by Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. That attack resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to Israeli figures.

What is the humanitarian cost of the war?

The Gaza health ministry reports at least 70,103 Palestinian deaths. The United Nations considers these figures to be reliable amid a severe humanitarian crisis.

Why won’t the trapped Hamas fighters surrender?

A Hamas official stated their fighters “cannot accept surrendering.” The group insists on a negotiated solution for their safe passage from the tunnels.