Hamas terrorists have begun moving Israeli hostages through Gaza's vast underground tunnel network in a desperate attempt to use them as human shields against the impending Israeli ground invasion, according to senior defence sources.
The shocking tactic emerges as the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) complete final preparations for what officials describe as an "unprecedented" assault on the Palestinian territory. Intelligence reports indicate Hamas is strategically positioning captives in military command centres and weapons storage facilities throughout the labyrinthine tunnel system.
Urban Warfare Nightmare
IDF commanders face the grim prospect of conducting complex urban warfare operations while Hamas deliberately uses innocent civilians and hostages as protection. Military experts describe the situation as one of the most challenging combat environments in modern warfare history.
"Hamas has established its command centres in the heart of civilian areas," revealed a senior defence official. "They are now adding another layer of protection by placing hostages exactly where they know we will need to strike."
Netanyahu's Stern Warning
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a grave address to the nation, confirming that the war cabinet has unanimously approved timing for the ground offensive. While refusing to disclose operational details, he emphasised that preparations were progressing at an intense pace.
"We are preparing for a ground offensive," Netanyahu stated unequivocally. "I will not elaborate on how, when, or how many, or on the various considerations we are taking into account, most of which the public is not aware of - and that is how things should be."
The Human Cost
The conflict has already claimed over 1,400 Israeli lives since Hamas's brutal October 7th attack, while Gaza health officials report more than 5,000 Palestinian fatalities. The international community watches with growing concern as the region braces for what could become the most intense urban combat operation in decades.
Defence analysts suggest the underground tunnel network, dubbed the "Gaza Metro," presents extraordinary challenges. These reinforced concrete passages, some large enough for vehicles, connect weapons caches, command posts, and rocket launch sites throughout the densely populated territory.
International Response
World leaders continue urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation, though Israeli officials maintain that eliminating Hamas's military capabilities remains non-negotiable. The coming days are expected to determine the course of what many fear could become a prolonged and devastating ground conflict.
