The Israeli military has released video footage depicting a tunnel in the Gaza Strip, where they claim to have discovered the bodies of six hostages killed by Hamas. The footage, presented at a press conference by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman Daniel Hagari, shows the tunnel located beneath a residential home in Rafah, southern Gaza.
The video reveals a narrow, poorly ventilated passageway situated about 20 meters underground. Hagari described the environment inside the tunnel as extremely humid, stating, “There is no air to breathe.” The footage also captures a chessboard, a hairbrush, USB chargers, a Kalashnikov rifle with ammunition, and flashlights. Blood stains are visible on the tunnel floor.
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Hagari alleged that Hamas militants executed the six hostages a group of two women and four men—one day before Israeli forces recovered their bodies on August 31. He stated, “We have collected all the evidence inside the tunnel for investigation.” We are examining the materials and following every lead to track down the terrorists responsible for this heinous murder,” Hagari stated. He also noted that other hostages might be held under similar dire conditions.
The discovery of the hostages’ bodies has intensified public pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with hundreds of thousands of Israelis protesting and demanding action to secure the release of remaining hostages.
Hamas had captured approximately 250 hostages during a surprise attack on Israeli towns adjacent to Gaza on October 7, 2023. Israeli officials report that 101 hostages are still in Hamas captivity, with many feared dead.
