Israeli military officials have announced a significant development in the ongoing ground operation within the Gaza Strip, confirming the elimination of a group of Hamas militants who had been confined underground for an extended period.
Militants Trapped for Months in Underground Network
According to reports from Israeli and American intelligence sources, approximately 200 Hamas fighters had been trapped for months within the extensive labyrinth of tunnels constructed by the militant group beneath Gaza. This subterranean network, often referred to as the "Gaza Metro," has been a key focus of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) campaign following the October 7 attacks.
Clashes and Surrenders Thin Ranks of Trapped Fighters
Israeli media, citing defense sources, reported that the situation for the entrapped militants has been deteriorating. Over time, some fighters attempted to emerge from the tunnels, leading to direct clashes with Israeli forces where they were killed. In other instances, facing dire conditions including a lack of supplies, some militants chose to surrender to Israeli troops.
The recent military action, which took place on December 4, 2025, resulted in the deaths of around 40 of these Hamas operatives. The IDF stated that these fighters were targeted and neutralized while still within the tunnel confines, marking a continued effort to dismantle Hamas's military infrastructure and degrade its combat capabilities.
Ongoing Focus on Underground Threat
This operation underscores the persistent and complex challenge the tunnel system poses. The IDF has employed a multi-faceted strategy to combat this threat, including mapping, controlled demolitions, and targeted raids. The elimination of this group represents a tactical success in a campaign that has seen fierce urban and subterranean warfare.
The news was widely reported by international agencies, including Reuters, on December 4, highlighting the ongoing intensity of the conflict. The development is part of the broader Israeli military objective to neutralize Hamas's ability to operate from within Gaza, a goal that has defined the military strategy for nearly two months of sustained operations.
