Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Reveals Images of Khan Younis Tunnels Used by Hamas to Hold Hostages
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have released images of the Khan Younis tunnels, which they claim were used by Hamas to hold around 20 hostages at different times. The underground construction, located in the center of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, ran for about 830 meters at a depth of 20 meters. Inside the tunnels, the IDF found traps, explosives, various obstacles, and encountered and killed several Hamas operatives upon entering.
While the IDF did not find any hostages in the tunnels, they claim, based on testimonies from freed individuals and DNA evidence, that around 20 hostages were held in these tunnels at different times, with some having been released while others remain held in Gaza.
Videos shared by the IDF show long tunnels, some of which lead to rooms with mattresses, blankets, food wrappers scattered on the floor, as well as a kitchen and bathroom. Additionally, the IDF shared photos of children’s drawings, believed to have been made by a former hostage named Emilia Aloni, 5, and her mother Daniel.
During a brief truce between Hamas and Israel in November, more than 100 hostages were freed, including Emilia and her mother. However, Israel estimates that there are still 132 hostages remaining in Gaza, 25 of whom are believed to have died, according to the Israeli Prime Minister’s office.
These revelations by the IDF shed light on the underground network used by Hamas to hold hostages, and bring attention to the ongoing issue of hostages held in Gaza.