“IDF’s successful trial: Seawater flooding proves effective against Hamas tunnels

IDF triumphs in subterranean warfare face environmental and ethical scrutiny

In a strategic move to damage Hamas’s underground network, Israel has reportedly succeeded in pumping seawater into the extensive tunnel system beneath Gaza, a development that introduces new dimensions to the ongoing conflict. 

The Times of Israel has learned that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) began the tunnel flooding in a limited trial capacity, marking a notable advancement in their efforts to dismantle the underground infrastructure used by the Palestinian terror group.

The Wall Street Journal initially reported on the IDF’s unconventional approach, highlighting the use of seawater as a means to destroy the intricate tunnel system and force Hamas operatives above ground. 

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi had previously endorsed the concept, and recent reports confirm the successful initiation of the flooding operation.

The IDF’s move has drawn attention to the intricate balance between military tactics and potential humanitarian consequences. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan claims that the tunnels were engineered to withstand flooding and other “potential dangers.” 

The concern for potential harm to hostages, some of whom are held in these tunnels, was addressed by IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, who stated that the army operates based on intelligence to minimize risks to civilians.

Since the ground offensive against Hamas commenced in late October, the IDF has uncovered over 800 tunnel shafts in the Gaza Strip, with 500 of them already destroyed. 

The flooding tactic, involving five large water pumps near the Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, is just one of several methods being considered. Airstrikes, liquid explosives, and deploying dogs, drones, and robots into the network are among the alternatives being weighed.

Environmental experts have voiced concerns about potential long-term effects on the groundwater in Gaza. If mishandled, the flooding operation could damage the aquifer, soil, and even the foundations of buildings. 

The Egyptian military’s similar action in 2015, flooding smuggling tunnels beneath Gaza’s southern border, serves as a cautionary tale.

The Biden administration’s stance on Israel’s flooding tactic appears divided. While some officials express concern, others support Israel’s efforts to eliminate the tunnels. 

During a press conference, President Joe Biden acknowledged the assertions that there are no hostages in the tunnels but emphasized uncertainty about this fact.

In a separate development, the IDF released footage showcasing the operation of the elite Yahalom combat engineering reconnaissance unit. 

The video depicts Hamas operatives shot dead in a tunnel, emphasizing the military’s commitment to neutralizing threats posed by terrorists hiding underground. Rear Adm. 

Hagari warned of “new combat means” designed to eliminate Hamas operatives in their tunnels, underscoring the military’s determination to render these hideouts unsafe for terrorists.

As the conflict in Gaza continues to evolve, Israel’s success in flooding the tunnels introduces a controversial chapter in the ongoing struggle against Hamas. 

The environmental and ethical ramifications of such unconventional tactics raise critical questions about the balance between military necessity and the potential impact on civilian populations.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members