The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the discovery of a large tunnel on the Gaza-Egypt border, capable of allowing vehicles to pass through. The tunnel, approximately three meters (10 feet) tall, was found on the Philadelphi Route, an area known for being a major smuggling route used by Hamas.
📍EXPOSED: 3-Meter-High Terrorist Tunnel in the Area of the Philadelphi Corridor:
In recent operational activity, IDF troops eliminated dozens of tunnel routes in the area of the Philadelphi Corridor, and continue to locate additional ones. A three-meter-high tunnel was… pic.twitter.com/3U0ICFS6Es
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) August 4, 2024
The tunnel, uncovered last week, was reportedly located directly underneath an Egyptian army position. The IDF has stated that dozens of such tunnels have been found along the Philadelphi Corridor, many of which have been used to transport weapons and supplies from Egypt into Gaza. Combat engineers are currently investigating the newly discovered tunnel before its demolition.
In response to the tunnel’s discovery, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich warned against any ceasefire deal that would leave the Philadelphi Corridor under Hamas control, arguing it would enable further attacks on Israeli civilians. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted on maintaining control over the Rafah border crossing and the Philadelphi Corridor to prevent Hamas from rebuilding its smuggling network.
Rocket attacks from Gaza have continued, with the latest barrage triggering sirens in towns near Ashdod. Some rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome, while others landed in open areas, causing no injuries. The IDF has urged residents in certain neighborhoods of Khan Younis to evacuate to designated “humanitarian zones” in anticipation of further military actions.
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