IDF seals 16-kilometer Hamas tunnel where murdered soldier Hadar Goldin's remains were held

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has concluded a three-month operation to seal a vast Hamas tunnel complex located near the Philadelphi Corridor in southern Rafah.

The extensive tunnel network, measuring 16 kilometers in length, was filled with more than 30,000 cubic meters of concrete. This operation was led by engineering troops from the IDF's Gaza Division and Southern Command, alongside Yahalom Combat Engineers. The entrance to the tunnel was discovered three months ago.

This tunnel complex was significant for Hamas, housing approximately 80 living quarters and functioning as a command-and-control center for the terrorist organization's military wing. It was utilized by the commander of Hamas's Rafah Brigade to plan and execute terrorist operations. Notably, the tunnel ran beneath residential areas, mosques, kindergartens, clinics, a school, and a UNRWA clinic.

Lieutenant Hadar Goldin was killed in battle and abducted by Hamas on August 1, 2014, during Operation Protective Edge. His remains were held captive in this tunnel before being returned for burial in Israel in November 2025 as part of a hostage exchange framework. The IDF also reported striking a Hamas underground terror infrastructure site in Deir al-Balah on Saturday, aimed at dismantling efforts by terrorists to restore infrastructure in violation of the current ceasefire.