Israel is preparing to advance into the Gaza Strip. Hamas had ten years to prepare for urban warfare. Their system of bunkers and tunnels plays a central role.
One of the biggest challenges facing the Israeli armed forces is Hamas’ tunnel system. There is not just one type of tunnel, they have different functions. The “smugglers” tunnels that connect the Gaza Strip in the south with Egypt are well known. They are the militant groups’ main supply lines. Much of the military equipment is brought into Gaza through these tunnels. Such tunnels have existed for a long time. Initially they were mainly used for typical contraband, but with the strip’s self-government they became the lifelines of the militants.