Israel Reports Elimination of 40 Hamas Militants in Gaza Tunnels
Israeli forces have announced a significant operational achievement in the Gaza Strip, stating they have eliminated approximately 40 Hamas militants within a complex network of tunnels beneath Rafah. This southern Gaza area is currently under Israeli military control, marking a crucial development in the ongoing conflict.
Trapped Fighters and Failed Negotiations
Statements from both Israeli and U.S. officials indicate that these militants were part of a larger group, estimated at around 200 fighters, who had been trapped in the underground passages for several months. While many remained elusive, Israeli media reports suggest that some militants eventually emerged, resulting in fatal clashes with Israeli troops or their surrender.
Earlier diplomatic endeavors, spearheaded by Washington and other international mediators, aimed to broker an agreement for the trapped Hamas fighters. The proposed deal involved their disarmament in exchange for safe passage to other areas within the enclave. However, these crucial negotiations ultimately faltered. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff had previously underscored such an agreement's importance, viewing it as a potential stepping stone toward a comprehensive disarmament process for Hamas across Gaza.
Key Casualties and Hamas's Response
The recent operation resulted in the deaths of at least three local commanders, underscoring the strategic impact of the engagement. Among the casualties, the son of Ghazi Hamad, a prominent exiled Hamas leader, was also confirmed. Although Hamas sources acknowledged the death of one commander, Mohammad al-Bawab, the group has yet to officially confirm the total number of militants trapped or the full extent of the losses. A spokesperson for Hamas in Gaza declined to comment directly on Israel's specific claims regarding the killing of the 40 gunmen.
