Executive Summary

Hamas operates an intricate tunnel network under Gaza, known colloquially as the “Gaza metro.” This subterranean system serves multifaceted roles: a transport hub, storage for rockets and ammunition, and a command and control center. The network provides Hamas with a tactical advantage against the technologically superior Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Background

  • Origin & Use: Originally, Gaza tunnels were pathways to smuggle goods from Egypt and to launch attacks into Israel. However, the “Gaza metro” offers a more complex system, functioning as a secretive logistical backbone for Hamas.
  • Extent: Claims from Hamas in 2021 suggested 500 kilometers (311 miles) of tunnels under Gaza. The veracity of this claim remains disputed.
  • Construction & Funding: Given Gaza’s blockade by Israel and Egypt since 2007, Hamas lacks access to heavy machinery for tunnel construction. Instead, basic tools are likely used for tunneling, with the tunnels reinforced by concrete. There’s criticism against Hamas for diverting resources meant for civilian purposes to tunnel construction.

Strategic Importance

  • Asymmetric Warfare Advantage: Tunnels have historically been crucial in asymmetric warfare. For Hamas, they negate some of the IDF’s technological superiority.
  • Location: The uniqueness of Hamas’ tunnels lies in their location. They are built underneath one of the world’s most densely populated areas, Gaza City, housing nearly 2 million residents in 88 square miles.
  • Tactical Challenges: Urban tunnel networks introduce complexity to military strategies. While tunnels in isolated regions are challenging, those in urban environments pose compounded risks due to the proximity of civilians.

Humanitarian Concerns & IDF Response

  • The IDF contends that Hamas uses the civilian population as human shields by positioning themselves in these tunnels under inhabited structures.
  • Recent events indicate the IDF’s intent to target these tunnels, evidenced by prior ground assaults, like in 2014. Anticipating another such incursion, Israel has warned Gaza’s civilians to evacuate.
  • Israel’s warning has faced criticism, given the challenges of executing such a mass evacuation in wartime.

Expert Opinion

Daphne Richemond-Barak, an underground warfare specialist, highlighted the challenges of handling urban tunnels. Strategies include making tunnels temporarily unusable or outright destruction. Bombing is often the most efficient, though it carries significant civilian risks.

Conclusion

The “Gaza metro” remains a pivotal asset for Hamas, serving both military and logistical roles. Its presence under a dense civilian population complicates IDF operations, introducing significant humanitarian concerns.

Disclaimer: This report is based on open-source information and should be interpreted in the broader context of the ongoing conflict in the region.