The Gaza Tunnels, a labyrinth of underground passageways beneath the densely populated Gaza Strip, have become a critical element in Hamas' strategy. This article will explore why these tunnels hold such importance for the Palestinian organization.
Strategic Similarities with Viet Cong
In a situation reminiscent of the Vietnam War, where Viet Cong guerrilla fighters used an extensive network of tunnels to combat better-equipped American and South Vietnamese forces, Hamas has adopted a similar approach.
These tunnels, known colloquially as the "Gaza Metro," serve a multitude of functions. They were initially constructed for economic reasons, to smuggle consumer goods from Egypt in response to the Israeli blockade imposed after Hamas's victory in the 2007 elections.
Today, these tunnels serve various purposes. They house troops, serve as communication and supply routes, enable the placement of booby traps, and facilitate surprise attacks on Israeli forces. These passages reach depths of 30-40 meters, making them inaccessible to Israeli airstrikes and surveillance technology.
A Critical Element in Asymmetric Warfare
Hamas's extensive tunnel network provides them with a significant advantage in asymmetric warfare. Unlike other militant groups, Hamas has constructed this subterranean network beneath one of the world's most densely populated areas. With nearly two million people residing in Gaza City, eliminating these tunnels without harming civilians is a complex challenge.
The Challenge for Israel
For Israel, addressing the Gaza Tunnels has become an urgent concern. While technology alone is insufficient to counter this subterranean threat, Israel has previously launched ground operations to eliminate these tunnels. The IDF is once again expected to target this network in a forthcoming ground incursion into Gaza.
Human Shield Concerns
One of the most troubling aspects is the use of civilians as "human shields." The IDF alleges that Hamas hides within these tunnels, effectively turning them into potential targets, resulting in civilian casualties. This tactic has been a source of international concern and criticism.
**The Cost of Tunnel Construction**
The cost of building and maintaining this extensive tunnel network is substantial in terms of both manpower and capital. Despite Gaza's difficult living conditions, Hamas has invested heavily in these tunnels, diverting resources that some argue could have been used for civilian infrastructure, such as bomb shelters.
Operating within an urban environment adds layers of complexity to combat in and around the tunnels. The tactical, strategic, and operational aspects of urban tunnel warfare pose significant challenges. the Gaza Tunnels have become a cornerstone of Hamas' resistance strategy against Israel. The intricate network of tunnels allows Hamas to navigate beneath the surface, presenting a multifaceted challenge for Israeli forces. The use of civilian infrastructure and concerns about human shields further complicate the situation, highlighting the need for a holistic approach in dealing with this subterranean threat.
