In a revealing expose, The New York Times has reported on a cache of documents discovered by the IDF in Gaza, shedding light on Hamas's intricate tunnel network and combat tactics. These documents, including a 2019 handbook, offer unprecedented insight into the terrorist organization's underground operations.
The Arabic manual provides detailed instructions for Hamas operatives on concealing and accessing tunnel entrances, and also how they should navigate the subterranean labyrinth. "While moving in the dark inside the tunnel, the fighter needs night-vision goggles equipped with infrared," the document states.
Combat tactics and instructions are outlined, with directives to fire weapons on automatic at shoulder height for maximum lethality in the confined spaces. According to the document, "This type of shooting is effective because the tunnel is narrow, so the shots are aimed at the kill zones in the upper part of the human body."
Further documents reveal Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's direct involvement in fortifying the tunnel network. One paper details how he approved the installation of blast doors to protect the tunnels and his fighters from both airstrikes and ground assaults.
The majority of a $225,000 project was allocated to reinforcing tunnels in northern Gaza and Khan Younis, areas that have seen intense fighting.
A letter from Sinwar to deceased military commander Muhammad Deif elaborates on the expenses and complexities of tunnel construction, infrastructure which has extreme strategic value to Hamas.
IDF sources confirm that findings within the tunnels corroborate the information detailed in these documents.
* Arutz Sheva contributed to this article.