IDF Destroys Hamas Tunnel and Uncovers Weapons in Gaza

Israeli combat engineers demolished a 1.5 km-long tunnel in Khan Yunis. The 7th Brigade's expanded operations in Gaza led to the discovery of various weapon compounds and resulted in the killings of several terrorists. The conflict has led to 1,200 deaths and numerous hostages, some of whom remain unaccounted for.

On Monday, Israeli combat engineers destroyed a 1.5 km-long tunnel in Khan Yunis, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Discovered by the army's 603rd Battalion and the Yahalom unit, the tunnel contained an active Hamas compound equipped with weapons, long-term stay provisions, and other items. The IDF reported that the terrorists fled the tunnel upon the soldiers' arrival.

Simultaneously, the 7th Brigade Combat Team expanded their offensive in the Gaza Strip, reaching Khan Yunis and the outskirts of Deir al-Balah. During these operations, they engaged and eliminated terrorists, dismantled surface and underground combat facilities, and found a compound housing dozens of rockets, launchers, and anti-tank missiles.

The ongoing conflict has claimed at least 1,200 lives, with terrorists taking 252 Israelis and foreigners hostage during attacks on communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the remaining 111 hostages, 39 have been declared dead. Hamas has also detained two Israeli civilians since 2014 and 2015, along with the bodies of two soldiers killed in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies.)