In a significant development in central Gaza, Israeli military forces uncovered the most extensive arms production facility since the onset of hostilities. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Monday that this factory, capable of producing rockets with a range reaching beyond Tel Aviv, was situated deep within a vast tunnel network beneath the Al-Bureij refugee camp.
The IDF revealed that this facility, located about 30 meters underground, was responsible for manufacturing rockets that could travel over 100 kilometers. Additionally, the site was utilized for creating a variety of other armaments, including explosives, rocket guidance systems, mortar shells, small arms, and drones.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF spokesperson, stated in a press briefing that this was the most significant weapons manufacturing site they had encountered since the war’s beginning. He highlighted the facility’s connection to an extensive underground tunnel system used for distributing weapons across Gaza. The produced rockets were reportedly launched toward central Israel and other regions within the country. Hagari emphasized the IDF’s continued commitment to targeting Hamas’ weapons production and underground networks, as well as their leadership in Gaza.
The IDF identified the Al-Bureij camp as a key location where Hamas militants produced many of the weapons deployed in their October 7 attack on southern Israel. This attack led to the deaths of approximately 1,200 civilians and soldiers, leaving thousands injured and roughly 240 people taken hostage back to Gaza. Despite a November ceasefire agreement resulting in the release of many hostages, it is believed that 129 individuals remain captive. Throughout the assault, thousands of rockets were launched at Israel.
In related operations, IDF forces intensified their ground activities in Khan Yunis, a Hamas stronghold in southern Gaza. The army reported the elimination of forty militants and the discovery of significant tunnels and an array of weaponry, including AK-47 rifles, RPGs, grenades, ammunition, and military vests. The Israeli Navy also targeted Hamas naval capabilities, striking military posts
