In a significant revelation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) disclosed on Sunday the discovery of the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel in the northern Gaza Strip, close to the Erez border crossing with Israel.

The tunnel, stretching approximately four kilometres (2.5 miles), was unearthed by the IDF and descended as deep as 50 meters (165 feet) underground in certain sections, showcasing a concerning level of sophistication.

Crucially, the tunnel did not breach Israeli territory, but its proximity to the Erez Crossing raises security concerns given the strategic location.

Notably, one of the shafts was a mere 400 meters (a quarter mile) from the crossing, which, until Hamas’s October 7 offensive, served as a conduit for the movement of Palestinian civilians into Israel for employment and medical purposes.

The IDF attributed the discovery to the efforts of the Combat Engineering Corps’ elite Yahalom unit and the Gaza Division’s Northern Brigade.

Utilizing advanced intelligence and technological means, these units meticulously scanned and cleared the “strategic” tunnel network of any potential threats over the past few weeks.

The exact route of the tunnel, as depicted in a map seen by The Times of Israel, has not been authorized for public dissemination due to security concerns.

Hamas, the militant group controlling the Gaza Strip, has a history of constructing intricate tunnel networks for offensive purposes, including infiltrations and attacks.

The scale and depth of this newly uncovered tunnel underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Israeli security forces in countering such subterranean threats.

The IDF’s proactive approach in uncovering and neutralizing this extensive tunnel network serves as a testament to the continuous efforts to enhance border security and prevent potential attacks.

The use of advanced technology and intelligence highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare, where military forces leverage cutting-edge methods to stay ahead of emerging threats.

As tensions persist in the region, with periodic escalations of violence, the discovery of this sizable Hamas tunnel serves as a stark reminder of the complex security landscape faced by Israel.

The proximity of such infrastructure to key border crossings heightens the need for constant vigilance and robust defensive measures to safeguard civilian populations and maintain regional stability.

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