The extensive network of tunnels beneath Gaza is primarily known for smuggling goods from Egypt and for launching attacks into Israel. Additionally, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) refer to this network as the “Gaza metro,” a complex system of tunnels used for various purposes, including transporting people and goods, storing rockets and ammunition, and serving as command and control centers for Hamas. These tunnels are designed to evade IDF aircraft and surveillance drones.
In 2021, Hamas claimed to have constructed approximately 500 kilometers (311 miles) of tunnels under Gaza, though the accuracy of this figure remains uncertain. If accurate, this tunnel network would be nearly half the length of the New York City subway system. The extensive network
The exact cost of building and maintaining this extensive tunnel network is unclear, but it is likely a significant investment in terms of both manpower and capital, considering Hamas governs the economically challenged coastal strip.
Gaza has been under a land, sea and air blockade by Israel, as well as a land blockade by Egypt, since 2007 and is not believed to possess the type of massive machinery typically used to build tunnels deep underground. Experts say that diggers using basic tools likely burrowed deep underground to dig the network, which is wired with electricity and reinforced by concrete. Israel has long accused Hamas of diverting concrete meant for civilian and humanitarian purposes toward the construction of tunnels.
Hamas’ critics also say that the group’s massive expenditures on tunnels could have instead paid for civilian bomb shelters or early warning networks like those across the border in Israel.