The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) released harrowing new video footage showing the condition of tunnels where six hostages had been executed by Hamas terrorists. The IDF Spokesperson, RADM. Daniel Hagari, stated that the footage was distributed in English to showcase the cruelty of Hamas and highlight the evil they perpetrate. Despite the tragic loss of the hostages, efforts continue to bring them home alive. The bodies of the deceased hostages, including an American-Israeli citizen, were retrieved in a rescue operation at the end of August. The parents of the American hostage had made public appeals for his safe return, expressing immense grief and sorrow.
The new footage released by the IDF shows Hagari navigating through the cramped, dark, and terrifying tunnels where the hostages were found. The passageway, located under Rafah’s Tel Sultan neighborhood, was littered with garbage, clothing, bloodstains, and weeks worth of food and equipment used by the Hamas terrorists. Israeli forces proceeded to destroy eight miles of underground routes and neutralize 80% of all Hamas tunnels along the Philadelphi Corridor. The investigation into the murder of the hostages continues, with findings to be presented to the families and the public once complete.
The Israeli forces, according to Hagari, operated responsibly and cautiously both above and below ground, eliminating many terrorists in the process. Despite not having precise intelligence on the hostages’ location in the tunnel, the troops were unable to rescue them before they were murdered by Hamas terrorists. An investigation has been initiated into the breach where the names of the hostages leaked before their recovery, which posed a serious security risk to the troops. Operations in the Tel al-Sultan area in Gaza continue as tunnels are located and destroyed by Israeli forces.
The IDF’s relentless efforts to eliminate Hamas terrorists and destroy tunnels in Gaza are ongoing. The investigation into the hostage situation and the leak of their names before recovery is a matter of utmost concern and seriousness for the IDF. The tragic loss of the hostages has brought immense sorrow to their families, who continue to mourn their loved ones. Israeli forces have demonstrated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of their citizens, taking necessary measures to combat and neutralize terrorist threats in the region. The international community has been briefed on the situation, shedding light on the evil actions of Hamas and the need for continued vigilance in the fight against terrorism.