By Peter.
Israeli Military Discovers Bodies of 9 Hamas Militants in Rafah Tunnels
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday, November 28, 2025, that troops in eastern Rafah, southern Gaza, uncovered the bodies of nine Palestinian militants killed in underground tunnels during ongoing operations to dismantle Hamas infrastructure. The militants were “most likely” eliminated by Israeli airstrikes and engineering measures, per IDF statements, bringing the toll of those attempting to flee the tunnels to over 30 since operations intensified.
Operations in Rafah: Tunnel Demolition Continues
IDF forces from the Golani Brigade and Nahal Brigade are focused on the Jenina neighborhood, where Hamas’s extensive tunnel network—spanning kilometers—remains a threat despite the October 10, 2025, U.S.-brokered ceasefire with mediators Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The ceasefire divided Gaza along the “Yellow Line” (marked by concrete barriers), with Israel controlling eastern Rafah—where the tunnels lie.
Recent actions include:
- Killing six militants on November 21 who emerged from tunnels (Nahal Brigade).
- Capturing five who surrendered the same day.
- Killing four and capturing two on November 26.
- November 25: Five killed emerging from shafts; AK-47s and ammo recovered.
The IDF believes 60–80 militants remain trapped in cells under Rafah, led by a battalion commander and company heads. Initial estimates of 200 have dropped as strikes took a toll.
Ceasefire Complications: Safe Passage Stalemate
Hamas publicly admitted the predicament on November 26, urging mediators (U.S., Egypt, Turkey, Qatar) to pressure Israel for safe passage to Hamas-held areas west of the Yellow Line. Israel denies the request, with PM Benjamin Netanyahu stating no “safe passage” for “terrorists.” U.S. envoy Jared Kushner discussed it with Netanyahu, per sources, amid Phase 2 ceasefire talks (hostage releases, demilitarization).
Hamas rejects surrender, vowing resistance until a Palestinian state. The tunnels, including one holding Lt. Hadar Goldin’s body from 2014, complicate demilitarization goals.
Broader Ceasefire Fragility
The truce—sparked by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack (1,200 Israelis killed, 251 hostages)—has held tenuously, with 69,799 Palestinians dead per Gaza Health Ministry (UN-reliable figures). Post-ceasefire, 352 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire; Hamas denies violations.
As Phase 2 talks stall (hostage swaps, reconstruction), the trapped fighters risk truce collapse. Mediators push for compromise; Israel vows no mercy.
#RafahTunnels #HamasCeasefire #IDFOps #GazaConflict2025
