Israel Defense Forces Destroy Kilometer-Long Hamas Tunnel, Uncover Rocket Launchers in Gaza Cemetery

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) recently uncovered and demolished a roughly one-kilometer-long Hamas tunnel network beneath Gaza City's Daraj and Tuffah neighborhoods, primarily dismantling the system during coordinated operations involving the 401st Armored Brigade and the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit. The military also discovered multiple rocket launchers, launch canisters, pistols, and ammunition hidden inside a cemetery in the same area, which the IDF alleges was deliberately used by Hamas militants for launching attacks against Israeli targets. During these operations, the IDF reported killing dozens of militants and dismantling associated military infrastructure. These findings emerged just hours before a key Israeli Security Cabinet meeting expected to approve plans for a full Gaza occupation, involving around five IDF divisions and the relocation of approximately one million Gaza City residents. Israel currently controls about 75% of Gaza, with the planned operation aiming to expand control over the enclave. The IDF emphasized the use of civilian sites by Hamas for military purposes, underscoring the urban complexity of the conflict zone.