Royal Tragedy: Unraveling The Nepali Royal Massacre

 By Emeka Chiaghanam

                     The newly located tunnel is wide enough for a car to travel down  AP

The enormity of the Erez tunnel network recently discovered by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reveals Hamas's strategic preparation for potential large-scale invasions into Israel. Stretching approximately four kilometers, this expansive tunnel system, the largest found since the conflict began, serves as a critical component of Hamas's tactics. 

Situated at a gradient of about 25 degrees, the tubular steel entrance, barely visible amidst the desert sands, is strategically designed to accommodate vehicular passage, indicating meticulous planning by the mobile terror group. On October 7, Hamas demonstrated the mobility of its forces, emphasizing the tunnel's potential role in a broader invasion.

The tunnel, reaching depths of 50 meters in some areas, emerges near the Erez Crossing at Gaza’s northern tip. Soldiers accompanying journalists into the tunnel provide insights into its construction, shedding light on its sinister purpose. The shafts at the entrance, equipped with steel ladders, suggest a design aimed at preventing sand ingress during surprise attacks, showcasing a pattern observed in other attack tunnels.

The initial meters of the tunnel feature rust-covered steel sheets, giving way to substantial circular steel ribs and modular concrete arches further inside. Cables for communication, lighting, and power line the walls, reminiscent of a train tunnel. Deeper within, a plastic drainage pipe facilitates ventilation, highlighting the challenging conditions Hamas operatives face.

As we traverse deeper, the temperature and humidity intensify, underscoring Hamas's struggle to power oxygen generators and ventilation pumps. The tunnel branches into subsidiary passages leading to storage rooms, command and control centers, and living quarters, all secured by robust steel blast doors.

The IDF's discovery of weapons depots within the tunnel corroborates suspicions of Hamas concealing its intentions by strategically placing armaments both above and below ground. This concealment tactic played a role in keeping their plans secret until the October 7 attack.

While the main section of the tunnel was not directly involved in the attack, the IDF asserts that other parts of the network facilitated staging and retreat. Released hostages describe the harrowing experience of being taken through kilometers of wet tunnels, highlighting the vastness of the network.

As the thud of munitions echoes in the distance, the terror of being held captive in such subterranean structures becomes apparent. Freed hostages share tales of captivity, expressing their fears of not only Hamas but also the potential dangers from above.

The discovery of this extensive tunnel network underscores the complexity of the challenges Israel faces in countering Hamas's strategic initiatives. As tensions persist, the IDF remains vigilant in addressing the evolving threat posed by these clandestine passages.

 

Emeka Chiaghanam, author, blogger at Heraldviews.com