Rafah Tunnel Showdown Erupts
Drama Deep in Rafah Tunnels: Terrorist Cell Emerges for Suicide Attack on IDF
A deadly clash erupted in Rafah as trapped Hamas terrorists launched a suicide-style attack on IDF troops, prompting Prime Minister Netanyahu to order powerful retaliatory strikes across Gaza amid fears the fragile ceasefire is collapsing.
A small cell of terrorists hiding deep in the Rafah tunnel network launched a last-ditch attack on Israeli forces late this afternoon (Tuesday), Israeli military sources said, in a violent incident that reopened questions about who is directing operations underground, as reported by Walla.
According to the IDF, engineering teams working in the Janaynah neighborhood of Rafah began dismantling a key section of the tunnel system when terrorists emerged from an underground position and opened fire on nearby troops. Military officials quoted by reporters said the pocket of terrorists appeared to have been besieged underground for an extended period and chose to make a final stand.
At this stage the IDF said it is unclear whether the assault was ordered by Hamas leadership in Gaza or carried out independently by the terrorists trapped in the tunnel complex. Hamas has denied involvement in the Rafah shooting and reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire.
The incident came amid reports of heavy exchanges earlier in the day between Israeli forces and Hamas terrorists, and followed the disclosure of what Israeli officials called a staged “discovery” of remains by Hamas yesterday.
In response to the Rafah attack, the IDF struck multiple terror targets in the area, including buildings and tunnel shafts, and is reportedly weighing whether to widen the circle of targets. After security consultations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered immediate, powerful strikes across the Gaza Strip, officials said.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance told reporters he believes the ceasefire will hold despite the exchanges of fire. Meanwhile IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, speaking at an awards ceremony for civilian IDF employees, warned that Hamas would be held to account for violations. “Hamas committed to return the remaining hostages and their remains, it is breaking that commitment. We know this organization’s nature: terrorism, deception and fraud. We will not remain silent. We will continue to act to return all our abductees for burial, this is our moral duty,” Zamir said, adding that if Hamas fails to meet its commitments it will “pay a heavy price.” He emphasized that the war is not over.
The situation in southern Gaza remains volatile as Israeli forces press operations against subterranean terror infrastructure and combatants. Further updates are expected as the IDF and political leaders evaluate next steps.