In a significant development, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have declared the discovery of what they assert to be the largest Hamas tunnel in Gaza, stretching an astonishing four kilometers. This tunnel, reportedly secured a few weeks ago but disclosed to the public recently, is wide enough to accommodate large vehicles and extends more than 160 feet underground.
The IDF has detailed that the tunnel is equipped with advanced features such as electricity, ventilation, and communication systems. Despite its substantial dimensions, the tunnel does not breach into Israel, ending 400 meters before the now-closed Erez crossing on the northern Israel-Gaza border.
Latest Developments in the Gaza Conflict:
- Rising Death Toll in Gaza: The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah reported an alarming death toll of approximately 18,800 Palestinians, with 70% being women and children, between October 7 and December 15. The ministry also noted over 51,100 reported injuries, with many others unaccounted for. CNN cannot independently verify these figures.
- Pope Condemns Alleged IDF Killings: Pope Francis addressed the deaths of a mother and daughter sheltering in the Holy Family Parish in Gaza, allegedly killed by an Israeli military sniper. The Pope condemned the targeting of unarmed civilians and urged a peaceful resolution.
- US Pressures Israel to Define Wartime Goals: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to visit Israel and will push for the definition of milestones in the war with Hamas. President Joe Biden has cautioned Israel about the potential loss of support due to its Gaza bombardment.
- Communication Blackout in Gaza: Gaza is experiencing an extended communication blackout, lasting four days, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society.
Aid Trucks En Route to Gaza:
In a separate development, 470 aid trucks are headed to the Gaza Strip through the Rafah crossing in Egypt after undergoing security inspections. This follows Israel’s decision to allow aid trucks to be inspected at Kerem Shalom, aiming to increase humanitarian aid entering Gaza.
The US government had pressed Israel to reopen the Kerem Shalom border crossing for emergency humanitarian aid. The Israeli war cabinet approved unloading aid trucks arriving from Egypt on the Gazan side of Kerem Shalom to expedite aid distribution.
This situation underscores the complexity of the ongoing conflict, with military developments and humanitarian efforts unfolding simultaneously on multiple fronts.