The Israeli Defense Forces have started pumping seawater into Hamas terrorist tunnels in the Gaza Strip.
This was written by the publication Wall Street Journal.
According to anonymous U.S. officials, this is part of an intensive effort to destroy the underground infrastructure that terrorists are actively using; It is noted that the decision to flood the Hamas tunnels is at an early stage of implementation. This is just one of several methods of Israeli destruction of tunnels.
The article says that the Israeli Defense Ministry refused to comment on the operation, saying that the data is classified.
The newspaper writes that, according to Israeli officials, Hamas’ underground infrastructure played a key role for the terrorists in battles with the IDF. For example, militants use the tunnels for maneuvering, as well as for storing missiles and ammunition. In addition, hostages may be held there.
U.S. officials say they are still evaluating the usefulness of using seawater to flood a large network of tunnels. Most likely, this operation will take several weeks. Initial tests have already been conducted. Israel is expected to use 7 pumps so far.
According to journalists, some White House officials are concerned that the use of seawater could be inefficient and jeopardize fresh water supplies in the Gaza Strip. However, there is another point of view. Some officials believe that this method can help destroy parts of Hamas’ tunnel network.
