Israel Vows to Dismantle All Remaining Hamas Tunnels in Gaza After Hostage Release

Defense Minister Outlines Post-Hostage Release Strategy

Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced on Sunday, October 12, 2025, that Israel intends to dismantle all remaining Hamas tunnels in the Gaza Strip. The directive comes as part of a broader ceasefire agreement, with the operation slated to commence following the release of hostages. Katz stated, 'Israel's major challenge after the hostage return phase will be the destruction of all Hamas terror tunnels in the Gaza Strip.'

The Defense Minister has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for this mission, which will involve direct military action alongside an 'international mechanism' established under United States leadership and supervision.

Ceasefire Agreement and Demilitarization Goals

The announcement by Minister Katz is integrated into a US-brokered ceasefire plan, the first phase of which includes significant hostage-prisoner exchanges. Under this agreement, 48 Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, are expected to be released. In return, Israel is anticipated to release 250 'national security prisoners' and 1,700 Gazans detained by the military.

The destruction of the tunnel network is presented as a crucial step towards the demilitarization of Gaza and the disarmament of Hamas, objectives outlined in the subsequent stages of the US-backed peace plan. The conflict, which began with Hamas's cross-border assault on October 7, 2023, has led to extensive casualties and devastation in the region.

The Extensive Hamas Tunnel Network

The Hamas tunnel network, often referred to as a 'vast underground city' or 'Gaza metro,' is an extensive subterranean infrastructure beneath the Gaza Strip. Estimates from January 2024 suggested the network could stretch between 350 and 450 miles, a figure significantly higher than previous assessments. This intricate system is utilized by Hamas for various strategic purposes, including:

• Storing weapons and ammunition
• Serving as command and control centers
• Facilitating the movement of fighters
• Holding hostages

Access points to these tunnels are frequently located beneath civilian infrastructure, such as schools, mosques, and hospitals, posing significant challenges for military operations. While many tunnels have already been destroyed during the ongoing two-year conflict, the remaining network continues to be a primary focus for Israeli forces.

Challenges and Future Operations

The task of completely dismantling the tunnel network is complex and presents considerable challenges. Hamas has historically resisted calls for disarmament, indicating potential difficulties in the full implementation of the ceasefire's later stages. The involvement of an international mechanism, led by the United States, underscores the scale and sensitivity of the planned operation. This phase is seen as critical for shaping the future security landscape of the Gaza Strip following the cessation of hostilities and the return of all hostages.