Love locks, which are padlocks snapped by couples onto fences and barriers placed at beautiful locations to symbolise the permanency of their relations, are a threat to wildlife, as per the recent social media post shared by the Grand Canyon National Park.&nbsp;

"Love is strong, but our bolt cutters are stronger," wrote park staff in a Wednesday post on Facebook. "People think putting a lock on fencing at viewpoints is a great way to show love for another person. It's not. Leaving padlocks is littering and a form of graffiti," he said.&nbsp;

Generally, lovers throw the key of the padlock into the gorge or river behind the fence after affixing their lock. However, the Grand Canyon's park staff wrote that this step of throwing the key in the popular ritual is especially dangerous. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-storms-leaving-weird-impact-on-birds-claim-scientists-645870">Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists</a>

Although the staff considers locks as “littering” and “graffiti” in the park, it is the key which causes more serious issues.&nbsp;

The critically endangered condors of California are attracted to shiny things, and as a result, some of the keys dropped in the water&nbsp;were swallowed by the bird and needed surgery to get removed.&nbsp;

"Condors are curious animals and much like a small child will investigate strange things they come across with their mouths. They will spot a coin, a wrapper, or a shiny piece of metal – like a key from a padlock that has been tossed into the canyon – and eat it," the post read. &nbsp;

<h2>Animals 'can die' after eating many shiny metal objects</h2>

Emphasising their point, the park rangers shared an X-ray image of a condor with coins, which were stuck in its digestive tract. According to the post, if the animal eats too many shiny metal objects, "it could die."&nbsp;

“Condors are not meant to digest metal and many times cannot pass these objects. If a condor ingests too many objects like this, it could die," the post read.&nbsp;

Even after posting the warnings, people threw objects in the canyon every day, said staff. Last year, TikTok influencer Katie Sigmond was slapped with a fine of $285 after she threw a golf ball into the Grand Canyon, according to the social media post of the park.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;UK migratory birds 'in freefall' over climate change

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"Padlocks and trash are not anomalies limited to the Grand Canyon. Do your part to not contribute to these bad habits and inform others of what can happen to the wildlife if these behaviours continue," wrote the park staff.&nbsp;

Love locks have proved to be troublesome in other destinations also, most famously at Paris’ Pont des Arts, where the locks had become so heavy that they started damaging the bridge's structural integrity.&nbsp;

In 2015, when the locks were removed by the city of Paris, the weight of the 700,000 metal objects was equal to the weight of 20 elephants.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Love locks, which are padlocks snapped by couples onto fences and barriers placed at beautiful locations to symbolise the permanency of their relations, are a threat to wildlife, as per the recent social media post shared by the Grand Canyon National Park.

Love locks, which are padlocks snapped by couples onto fences and barriers placed at beautiful locations to symbolise the permanency of their relations, are a threat to wildlife, as per the recent social media post shared by the Grand Canyon National Park. "Love is strong, but our bolt cutters are stronger," wrote park staff in a Wednesday post on Facebook. "People think putting a lock on fencing at viewpoints is a great way to show love for another person. It's not. Leaving padlocks is littering and a form of graffiti," he said. Generally, lovers throw the key of the padlock into the gorge or river behind the fence after affixing their lock. However, the Grand Canyon's park staff wrote that this step of throwing the key in the popular ritual is especially dangerous. ALSO READ | Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists Although the staff considers locks as “littering” and “graffiti” in the park, it is the key which causes more serious issues. The critically endangered condors of California are attracted to shiny things, and as a result, some of the keys dropped in the water were swallowed by the bird and needed surgery to get removed. "Condors are curious animals and much like a small child will investigate strange things they come across with their mouths. They will spot a coin, a wrapper, or a shiny piece of metal – like a key from a padlock that has been tossed into the canyon – and eat it," the post read. Animals 'can die' after eating many shiny metal objects Emphasising their point, the park rangers shared an X-ray image of a condor with coins, which were stuck in its digestive tract. According to the post, if the animal eats too many shiny metal objects, "it could die." “Condors are not meant to digest metal and many times cannot pass these objects. If a condor ingests too many objects like this, it could die," the post read. Even after posting the warnings, people threw objects in the canyon every day, said staff. Last year, TikTok influencer Katie Sigmond was slapped with a fine of $285 after she threw a golf ball into the Grand Canyon, according to the social media post of the park. WATCH | UK migratory birds 'in freefall' over climate change "Padlocks and trash are not anomalies limited to the Grand Canyon. Do your part to not contribute to these bad habits and inform others of what can happen to the wildlife if these behaviours continue," wrote the park staff. Love locks have proved to be troublesome in other destinations also, most famously at Paris’ Pont des Arts, where the locks had become so heavy that they started damaging the bridge's structural integrity. In 2015, when the locks were removed by the city of Paris, the weight of the 700,000 metal objects was equal to the weight of 20 elephants. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Keys of the 'love locks' at Grand Canyon are becoming dangerous. Here's why

Amid controversy over no guard of honour at the funeral of Agniveer Amritpal Singh in the Indian state of Punjab, the Indian Army said that the agniveer died by suicide. The army further admitted that there was "some misunderstanding and misrepresentation of facts" around his death.

The Indian government had announced the Agnipath scheme in 2022, in place of the&nbsp;earlier process&nbsp;of recruitment of soldiers into the armed forces. As per the scheme, the soldiers, who are called&nbsp;as Agniveers, are recruited for four years, after which they get an&nbsp;opportunity to join the regular cadre.&nbsp;

On Sunday (Oct 15), the Indian Army stated that Amritpal Singh shot himself to death while on sentry duty&nbsp;and that no guard of honour was extended to his funeral, as deaths due to such self-inflicted injuries are not given such honours.

The Army further stated that they do not differentiate between soldiers on the basis of whether they joined the force before or after the Agnipath scheme's implementation.&nbsp;

The Indian Army faced allegations of not extending military honours at the funeral of Singh, as he was an Agniveer soldier.

The Army's Nagrota-headquartered White Knight Corps said on Saturday (Oct 14) that he died because of a self-inflicted gunshot injury while he was on sentry duty in the Rajouri sector.

<h2>'Suicide cases not entitled to military funerals'</h2>

Later on Sunday night, the Army in a statement said, "It is a grave loss to the family and the Indian Army that Agniveer Amritpal Singh committed suicide by shooting himself while on sentry duty. In consonance with the existing practice, the mortal remains, after the conduct of medico-legal procedures, were transported under Army arrangements along with an escort party to his native place for the last rites."&nbsp;

"Unfortunate instances of death arising out of suicide/self-inflicted injury, irrespective of the type of entry, are accorded due respect by the Armed Forces along with deep and enduring empathy with the family. Such cases, however, are not entitled to military funerals as per the extant Army Order of 1967, in vogue. Policy on the subject has been consistently followed ever since, without any discrimination," it added.&nbsp;

"As per data held, there has been an average yearly loss ranging between 100-140 soldiers since 2001 where deaths occurred due to suicides/self-inflicted injuries, and a military funeral in such cases was not accorded," the Army stated.&nbsp;

It stated that they give due priority to entitled disbursement of financial assistance and relief, which includes immediate financial relief for carrying out funerals.

"Such unfortunate instances of loss bear heavy on the family and the Forces as a fraternity. During such times, it is important and incumbent on society to uphold the respect, privacy and dignity of the family while empathising with them in their moment of grief," the Army stated.&nbsp;

"Armed Forces are known for adherence to the policies and protocols and will continue to do so as hithertofore. The Indian Army requests support of all sections of society while it follows its established protocols," it added.&nbsp;

Taking to X, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday said irrespective of the army policy, the policy of his government will remain the same for a martyr and it will give Rs 10 million (approximately $120,000) to the family of the soldier.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid controversy over no guard of honour at the funeral of Agniveer Amritpal Singh in the Indian state of Punjab, the Indian Army said that the agniveer died by suicide.

Amid controversy over no guard of honour at the funeral of Agniveer Amritpal Singh in the Indian state of Punjab, the Indian Army said that the agniveer died by suicide. The army further admitted that there was "some misunderstanding and misrepresentation of facts" around his death. The Indian government had announced the Agnipath scheme in 2022, in place of the earlier process of recruitment of soldiers into the armed forces. As per the scheme, the soldiers, who are called as Agniveers, are recruited for four years, after which they get an opportunity to join the regular cadre. On Sunday (Oct 15), the Indian Army stated that Amritpal Singh shot himself to death while on sentry duty and that no guard of honour was extended to his funeral, as deaths due to such self-inflicted injuries are not given such honours. The Army further stated that they do not differentiate between soldiers on the basis of whether they joined the force before or after the Agnipath scheme's implementation. The Indian Army faced allegations of not extending military honours at the funeral of Singh, as he was an Agniveer soldier. The Army's Nagrota-headquartered White Knight Corps said on Saturday (Oct 14) that he died because of a self-inflicted gunshot injury while he was on sentry duty in the Rajouri sector. 'Suicide cases not entitled to military funerals' Later on Sunday night, the Army in a statement said, "It is a grave loss to the family and the Indian Army that Agniveer Amritpal Singh committed suicide by shooting himself while on sentry duty. In consonance with the existing practice, the mortal remains, after the conduct of medico-legal procedures, were transported under Army arrangements along with an escort party to his native place for the last rites." "Unfortunate instances of death arising out of suicide/self-inflicted injury, irrespective of the type of entry, are accorded due respect by the Armed Forces along with deep and enduring empathy with the family. Such cases, however, are not entitled to military funerals as per the extant Army Order of 1967, in vogue. Policy on the subject has been consistently followed ever since, without any discrimination," it added. "As per data held, there has been an average yearly loss ranging between 100-140 soldiers since 2001 where deaths occurred due to suicides/self-inflicted injuries, and a military funeral in such cases was not accorded," the Army stated. It stated that they give due priority to entitled disbursement of financial assistance and relief, which includes immediate financial relief for carrying out funerals. "Such unfortunate instances of loss bear heavy on the family and the Forces as a fraternity. During such times, it is important and incumbent on society to uphold the respect, privacy and dignity of the family while empathising with them in their moment of grief," the Army stated. "Armed Forces are known for adherence to the policies and protocols and will continue to do so as hithertofore. The Indian Army requests support of all sections of society while it follows its established protocols," it added. Taking to X, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday said irrespective of the army policy, the policy of his government will remain the same for a martyr and it will give Rs 10 million (approximately $120,000) to the family of the soldier. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Agniveer Amritpal Singh committed suicide, says Indian Army amid row over guard of honour

ISRO chairman S Somanath on Sunday (Oct 15) said that the experts, who were given the task of developing complex rocket missions in the United States, appealed to India to share space technology with them after seeing the development of Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft. &nbsp;

Speaking at an event in Rameswaram, he said that the times have changed and India has the capacity to build the best of the best rockets and devices, and this is the reason why Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened the space sector to private players.&nbsp;

Somanath was speaking to students during a programme organised by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s Foundation to commemorate the late former president's 92nd birth anniversary.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/less-than-1-iitans-in-isro-iitans-dont-want-to-join-isro-chief-645276">Less than 1% IITians in ISRO, they don't want to join: ISRO Chief Somanath</a>

“Our country is a very powerful nation. You understand that? Our knowledge and intelligence level in the country is one of the best in the world. In Chandrayaan-3, when we designed and developed the spacecraft, we invited experts from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Nasa-JPL, who do all the rockets and most difficult mission," the ISRO chief said.&nbsp;

“About five to six people from Nasa-JPL came (to Isro headquarters) and we explained to them about Chandrayaan-3. That was before the soft landing took place (on August 23). We explained how we designed it and how our engineers made it, and how we are going to land on the Moon’s surface, and they just said, 'no comments. everything is going to be good'," he added. &nbsp;

<h2>'Sell these advanced scientific instruments to the US'</h2>

JPL is a research and development laboratory, which is getting funded by NASA and is being managed by the California Institute of Technology (CALTECH) in the US.

“They (US space experts) also said one thing, 'look at the scientific instruments, they are very cheap. Very easy to build and they are advanced. How did you build it? Why don’t you sell this to America,' they were asking," he stated. &nbsp;"So you (students) can understand how times have changed. We are capable of building the best equipment, the best devices, and the best rockets in India. That is why our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened the space sector," Somanath added.

WATCH |&nbsp;ISRO Chief attends 74th International Astronautical Congress

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On August 23, India's Chandrayaan-3 lander successfully landed near the south pole of the Moon, which made it the first country in the world to achieve the feat of touching the dark side of the lunar surface and the fourth overall to land on the moon after China, the Soviet Union and the US.

"Now we are telling you people (to) come and build rockets and satellites and make our nation more powerful in space technology. It is not only ISRO, everybody can do it in space. There is one company in Chennai building rockets called Agnikul and another in Hyderabad called Skyroot. At least in India, there are five companies today building rockets and satellites," Somanath further said to the students.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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ISRO chairman S Somanath on Sunday (Oct 15) said that the experts, who were given the task of developing complex rocket missions in the United States, appealed to India to share space technology with them after seeing the development of Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft.

ISRO chairman S Somanath on Sunday (Oct 15) said that the experts, who were given the task of developing complex rocket missions in the United States, appealed to India to share space technology with them after seeing the development of Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft. Speaking at an event in Rameswaram, he said that the times have changed and India has the capacity to build the best of the best rockets and devices, and this is the reason why Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened the space sector to private players. Somanath was speaking to students during a programme organised by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s Foundation to commemorate the late former president's 92nd birth anniversary. ALSO READ | Less than 1% IITians in ISRO, they don't want to join: ISRO Chief Somanath “Our country is a very powerful nation. You understand that? Our knowledge and intelligence level in the country is one of the best in the world. In Chandrayaan-3, when we designed and developed the spacecraft, we invited experts from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Nasa-JPL, who do all the rockets and most difficult mission," the ISRO chief said. “About five to six people from Nasa-JPL came (to Isro headquarters) and we explained to them about Chandrayaan-3. That was before the soft landing took place (on August 23). We explained how we designed it and how our engineers made it, and how we are going to land on the Moon’s surface, and they just said, 'no comments. everything is going to be good'," he added. 'Sell these advanced scientific instruments to the US' JPL is a research and development laboratory, which is getting funded by NASA and is being managed by the California Institute of Technology (CALTECH) in the US. “They (US space experts) also said one thing, 'look at the scientific instruments, they are very cheap. Very easy to build and they are advanced. How did you build it? Why don’t you sell this to America,' they were asking," he stated. "So you (students) can understand how times have changed. We are capable of building the best equipment, the best devices, and the best rockets in India. That is why our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened the space sector," Somanath added. WATCH | ISRO Chief attends 74th International Astronautical Congress On August 23, India's Chandrayaan-3 lander successfully landed near the south pole of the Moon, which made it the first country in the world to achieve the feat of touching the dark side of the lunar surface and the fourth overall to land on the moon after China, the Soviet Union and the US. "Now we are telling you people (to) come and build rockets and satellites and make our nation more powerful in space technology. It is not only ISRO, everybody can do it in space. There is one company in Chennai building rockets called Agnikul and another in Hyderabad called Skyroot. At least in India, there are five companies today building rockets and satellites," Somanath further said to the students. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Impressed by Chandrayaan-3, American space experts wanted India to sell its tech to US: ISRO chief

On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone. 
 
These passageways have been a mystery forever with nothing to very little known about it in the outside world. Israel has raised the issue of Hamas operating these labyrinth of tunnels under Gaza repeatedly using it either to smuggle weapons, fighters or other contraband. 
 
"Think of the Gaza Strip as one layer for civilians and then another layer for Hamas. We are trying to get to that second layer that Hamas has built," said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson in a video, released on Thursday (Oct 12). 
 
"These aren't bunkers for Gazan civilians. It's only for Hamas and other terrorists so that they can continue to fire rockets at Israel, to plan operations, to launch terrorists into Israel," they added. 
 
As Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza, the experts hint that an extensive network of tunnels under Gaza may pose as one of the biggest challenges to the Israeli army in the densely populated region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>History of the 'Gaza Metro' tunnel system</h2>

Since the 1980s, the tunnels have been a part of the life of Gazans, however, its importance increased after Hamas removed Fatah from the seat of power and subsequently severe restrictions were placed on the movement of goods and people by Israel and Egypt on the territory. 
 
Before the Gaza Strip came under the control of the Hamas, the tunnel labyrinth was being used for smuggling. A few tunnels, which were located across their border with Gaza, were destroyed by Egypt. 
 
However, the tunnels towards Israel were slowly expanded and started being used by Hamas for more sinister goals. Israel dubbed these tunnels as the "Gaza Metro" because they believed it stretched under a territory which was only 41km (25 miles) long and 10km wide. 
 
After a conflict in 2021, the IDF claimed to have launched air strikes on more than 100km of tunnels and destroyed them. However, Hamas in its counterclaims stated that the tunnels stretched only 500km, which meant only 5 per cent of it was hit. 
 
At one time, nearly 2,500 tunnels which were underneath the Egyptian border were being used for smuggling fuels, weapons and commercial goods by other militant groups. 
 
Through time, smuggling did not remain the primary purpose of the tunnel, especially after 2010, when Israel started allowing the import of more goods through its crossings. Later, smuggling was stopped by Egypt by flooding or destroying the tunnels.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>Role played by tunnels in terror attacks of Hamas</h2>

In 2006, Hamas captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalid and killed his two colleagues in a cross-border raid, through tunnels. The soldier remained captured by Hamas for two years before he was released under a prisoner exchange deal. 
 
In some years, the Israelis started calling these tunnels as "terror tunnels" and further restricted the entry of construction materials into the Gaza Strip. 
 
A 1.6km-long, 18m-deep tunnel, which had a concrete roof and walls, was discovered by the IDF in 2013. The tunnel, which was found after strange sounds were heard by the residents, ran from the Gaza Strip to land near an Israeli kibbutz. 
 
The year after, Israel emphasised the need to curb the threat of attacks which were being carried out by Hamas militants using such "terror tunnels".

WATCH |&nbsp;A humanitarian crisis unfolds in Gaza | The West Asia Post

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-a-humanitarian-crisis-unfolds-in-gaza-the-west-asia-post-646437/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Key role of ‘terror tunnels’ in October 7 attacks</h2>

The shocking attacks of Hamas which shook Israel last weekend were a combination of simultaneous attacks via water and land and a barrage of rocket strikes. 
 
The border of Israel with Gaza remains fenced and has sensors installed which can detect movement. However, no early warning was issued before a surprise attack was launched by Hamas on civilians. 
 
The experts believe that tunnels may have played an important role in the undetected crossing of Hamas operatives into Israel. 
 
The fence built by Israel on the Gaza border is 30 feet high and has an underground concrete barrier. So, the only way Hamas operatives were able to enter Israel undetected would have been by digging tunnels under the barrier and the fence. 
 
Speaking to the BBC, Reichman University faculty member Dr Daphne Richemond-Barak said that the Gaza Strip has sophisticated tunnels, unlike the rudimentary tunnels over the borders. 
 
"The cross-border tunnels tend to be rudimentary, meaning they have barely any fortification. They are dug for a one-time purpose - invading Israeli territory," she said. 
 
The tunnels inside, Richemond-Barak said are, "equipped for a longer, sustained presence". "The leaders are hiding there, they have command-and-control centres, they use them for transport and lines of communication," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone.

On the sixth day of the ever-escalating Israel-Hamas war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that, apart from bombarding the Gaza Strip, they have been striking parts of secret tunnels that have been built by Hamas in the embattled zone. These passageways have been a mystery forever with nothing to very little known about it in the outside world. Israel has raised the issue of Hamas operating these labyrinth of tunnels under Gaza repeatedly using it either to smuggle weapons, fighters or other contraband. "Think of the Gaza Strip as one layer for civilians and then another layer for Hamas. We are trying to get to that second layer that Hamas has built," said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson in a video, released on Thursday (Oct 12). "These aren't bunkers for Gazan civilians. It's only for Hamas and other terrorists so that they can continue to fire rockets at Israel, to plan operations, to launch terrorists into Israel," they added. As Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza, the experts hint that an extensive network of tunnels under Gaza may pose as one of the biggest challenges to the Israeli army in the densely populated region. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents History of the 'Gaza Metro' tunnel system Since the 1980s, the tunnels have been a part of the life of Gazans, however, its importance increased after Hamas removed Fatah from the seat of power and subsequently severe restrictions were placed on the movement of goods and people by Israel and Egypt on the territory. Before the Gaza Strip came under the control of the Hamas, the tunnel labyrinth was being used for smuggling. A few tunnels, which were located across their border with Gaza, were destroyed by Egypt. However, the tunnels towards Israel were slowly expanded and started being used by Hamas for more sinister goals. Israel dubbed these tunnels as the "Gaza Metro" because they believed it stretched under a territory which was only 41km (25 miles) long and 10km wide. After a conflict in 2021, the IDF claimed to have launched air strikes on more than 100km of tunnels and destroyed them. However, Hamas in its counterclaims stated that the tunnels stretched only 500km, which meant only 5 per cent of it was hit. At one time, nearly 2,500 tunnels which were underneath the Egyptian border were being used for smuggling fuels, weapons and commercial goods by other militant groups. Through time, smuggling did not remain the primary purpose of the tunnel, especially after 2010, when Israel started allowing the import of more goods through its crossings. Later, smuggling was stopped by Egypt by flooding or destroying the tunnels. ALSO READ | Explained: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents Role played by tunnels in terror attacks of Hamas In 2006, Hamas captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalid and killed his two colleagues in a cross-border raid, through tunnels. The soldier remained captured by Hamas for two years before he was released under a prisoner exchange deal. In some years, the Israelis started calling these tunnels as "terror tunnels" and further restricted the entry of construction materials into the Gaza Strip. A 1.6km-long, 18m-deep tunnel, which had a concrete roof and walls, was discovered by the IDF in 2013. The tunnel, which was found after strange sounds were heard by the residents, ran from the Gaza Strip to land near an Israeli kibbutz. The year after, Israel emphasised the need to curb the threat of attacks which were being carried out by Hamas militants using such "terror tunnels". WATCH | A humanitarian crisis unfolds in Gaza | The West Asia Post Key role of ‘terror tunnels’ in October 7 attacks The shocking attacks of Hamas which shook Israel last weekend were a combination of simultaneous attacks via water and land and a barrage of rocket strikes. The border of Israel with Gaza remains fenced and has sensors installed which can detect movement. However, no early warning was issued before a surprise attack was launched by Hamas on civilians. The experts believe that tunnels may have played an important role in the undetected crossing of Hamas operatives into Israel. The fence built by Israel on the Gaza border is 30 feet high and has an underground concrete barrier. So, the only way Hamas operatives were able to enter Israel undetected would have been by digging tunnels under the barrier and the fence. Speaking to the BBC, Reichman University faculty member Dr Daphne Richemond-Barak said that the Gaza Strip has sophisticated tunnels, unlike the rudimentary tunnels over the borders. "The cross-border tunnels tend to be rudimentary, meaning they have barely any fortification. They are dug for a one-time purpose - invading Israeli territory," she said. The tunnels inside, Richemond-Barak said are, "equipped for a longer, sustained presence". "The leaders are hiding there, they have command-and-control centres, they use them for transport and lines of communication," she added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Hamas' mysterious tunnels in Gaza that pose challenge for Israel

In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.” 
 
However, this was not the first time such harsh conditions were imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip. There has been imposition of similar conditions by Israel on the strip of land since the Palestinian enclave was placed under air, land and sea blockade after Hamas came to power in 2007. 
 
Gaza, which stands wedged between Israel to the north and east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west and Egypt to the south, has been home to approximately 2.3 million Palestinians. More than 65 per cent of its population live below the poverty line, and experts have previously stated that the children are living in “hell on earth”. 
 
Today, amid the raging Israel-Hamas war, electricity, food and water remain blocked in the embattled Gaza in the wake of the latest “complete siege” and the populace is stranded with no routes to escape. 
 
Now that Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have asked around 1.2 million residents to evacuate northern Gaza, the question arises how citizens are supposed to flee from what rights groups, intellectuals, UN experts and even former British Prime Minister David Cameron have called an “open air prison”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-historical-conflict-between-israel-palestine-amid-unprovoked-escalation-by-hamas-644471">Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas</a>

<h2>Beginning of the blockade over Gaza Strip</h2>

Israel took over Gaza from Egypt in the Six-Day War of 1967 and began the territory's military occupation. Israel constructed 21 settlements in Gaza between 1967 and 2005 and pushed Palestinian residents to leave the territory by adopting coercive measures as well as offering them financial and other incentives. 
 
However, during that time there was an increased violent and non-violent Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation. In 2005, Israel withdrew its army from the Gaza Strip. 
 
In the next two years, temporary blockades were imposed by Israel on the movement of people and goods inside and outside Gaza on different occasions. 
 
After Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007, a permanent blockade was imposed on the territory by Israel. Egypt, which shares a border crossing with Gaza, also took part in the blockade. The blockade meant that most of the citizens could not go into or out of Gaza and also highly restricted the movement of goods and aid. 
 
This land, air and sea blockade imposed by Israel crippled the economy of Gaza and had devastating effects on Palestinians. It drew condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, however, Israel justified that the blockade was necessary for its security.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

<h2>Geographical barriers around Gaza Strip</h2>

Gaza Strip, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea on one side and has walls on the other three sides, stands completely surrounded by physical barriers. 
 
Israel established a 60-km-long fence on its Gaza border in 1994 which was upgraded many times and finally became a sophisticated border security system, which included walls which are 7 metres tall and have sensors and remote-controlled machine guns installed in areas which are close to the Israeli settlements. 
 
Israel has also constructed underground walls to stop any kind of movement through Gaza's famous underground tunnels. With the northern and eastern sides of Gaza walled off by Israel, its southern border was also walled when Egypt constructed a 14-km steel border barrier with the help of the United States. 
 
Underground barriers were also built by Egypt to block smuggling tunnels. The sea route into Gaza in the west was controlled by Israel, which did not allow it to be used for the movement of goods or people. 
 
As of now, Gaza has only three functional border crossings: Karem Abu Salem Crossing, Erez Crossing controlled by Israel, and Rafah Crossing controlled by Egypt. However, since the Israel-Hamas war started, all three crossings were effectively sealed.

Watch |&nbsp;Hamas attack: Israel's big security lapse

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hamas-attack-israels-big-security-lapse-646604/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Is there any escape from this 'open-air prison'?</h2>

The blockade placed by Israel and Egypt clearly stops people and goods from freely moving in and out of the Gaza Strip. 
 
The Israeli government has clearly stated that Palestinians will not be able to enter or leave Gaza “except in extremely rare cases, which include urgent, life-threatening medical conditions and a very short list of merchants”, as per B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights group, The Independent reported. 
 
The restrictions have not been imposed on Israelis, Jewish settlers as well as tourists and they are free to move in and out of Gaza. Quite often, Egypt also closes its land-border crossing located at Rafah, which is generally the only way for Palestinians, living in Gaza, to access the rest of the world. 
 
Israel is free to enter Gaza with its military at will and maintain a no-go buffer zone in the Gaza territory. The conditions of people living in this “open-air prison”, which remains bordered by walls and fences, have been difficult for long with 95 per cent of Gazans living without access to clean water.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.

In retaliation to the sudden and massive attack by Hamas, Israel called for a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip. As the world watched, Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant announced, “There will be no electricity, no food, no water, no fuel – everything is closed.” However, this was not the first time such harsh conditions were imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip. There has been imposition of similar conditions by Israel on the strip of land since the Palestinian enclave was placed under air, land and sea blockade after Hamas came to power in 2007. Gaza, which stands wedged between Israel to the north and east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west and Egypt to the south, has been home to approximately 2.3 million Palestinians. More than 65 per cent of its population live below the poverty line, and experts have previously stated that the children are living in “hell on earth”. Today, amid the raging Israel-Hamas war, electricity, food and water remain blocked in the embattled Gaza in the wake of the latest “complete siege” and the populace is stranded with no routes to escape. Now that Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have asked around 1.2 million residents to evacuate northern Gaza, the question arises how citizens are supposed to flee from what rights groups, intellectuals, UN experts and even former British Prime Minister David Cameron have called an “open air prison”. Also read: Revisiting Israel-Palestine historical conflict amid new escalation by Hamas Beginning of the blockade over Gaza Strip Israel took over Gaza from Egypt in the Six-Day War of 1967 and began the territory's military occupation. Israel constructed 21 settlements in Gaza between 1967 and 2005 and pushed Palestinian residents to leave the territory by adopting coercive measures as well as offering them financial and other incentives. However, during that time there was an increased violent and non-violent Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation. In 2005, Israel withdrew its army from the Gaza Strip. In the next two years, temporary blockades were imposed by Israel on the movement of people and goods inside and outside Gaza on different occasions. After Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2007, a permanent blockade was imposed on the territory by Israel. Egypt, which shares a border crossing with Gaza, also took part in the blockade. The blockade meant that most of the citizens could not go into or out of Gaza and also highly restricted the movement of goods and aid. This land, air and sea blockade imposed by Israel crippled the economy of Gaza and had devastating effects on Palestinians. It drew condemnation from human rights groups and the United Nations, however, Israel justified that the blockade was necessary for its security. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents Geographical barriers around Gaza Strip Gaza Strip, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea on one side and has walls on the other three sides, stands completely surrounded by physical barriers. Israel established a 60-km-long fence on its Gaza border in 1994 which was upgraded many times and finally became a sophisticated border security system, which included walls which are 7 metres tall and have sensors and remote-controlled machine guns installed in areas which are close to the Israeli settlements. Israel has also constructed underground walls to stop any kind of movement through Gaza's famous underground tunnels. With the northern and eastern sides of Gaza walled off by Israel, its southern border was also walled when Egypt constructed a 14-km steel border barrier with the help of the United States. Underground barriers were also built by Egypt to block smuggling tunnels. The sea route into Gaza in the west was controlled by Israel, which did not allow it to be used for the movement of goods or people. As of now, Gaza has only three functional border crossings: Karem Abu Salem Crossing, Erez Crossing controlled by Israel, and Rafah Crossing controlled by Egypt. However, since the Israel-Hamas war started, all three crossings were effectively sealed. Watch | Hamas attack: Israel's big security lapse Is there any escape from this 'open-air prison'? The blockade placed by Israel and Egypt clearly stops people and goods from freely moving in and out of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government has clearly stated that Palestinians will not be able to enter or leave Gaza “except in extremely rare cases, which include urgent, life-threatening medical conditions and a very short list of merchants”, as per B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights group, The Independent reported. The restrictions have not been imposed on Israelis, Jewish settlers as well as tourists and they are free to move in and out of Gaza. Quite often, Egypt also closes its land-border crossing located at Rafah, which is generally the only way for Palestinians, living in Gaza, to access the rest of the world. Israel is free to enter Gaza with its military at will and maintain a no-go buffer zone in the Gaza territory. The conditions of people living in this “open-air prison”, which remains bordered by walls and fences, have been difficult for long with 95 per cent of Gazans living without access to clean water. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | How Gaza Strip became the ‘world’s largest open-air prison’

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's now a week since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides over 1,300 Israelis and over 1,500 Palestinians have lost their lives so far.

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken lands in Jordan to meet with King Abdullah and Abbas

The Israel-Hamas War has entered its seventh day. Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in retribution for the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. Tel Aviv has dropped at least 6,000 bombs in the last 6 days. Hamas gunmen have killed over 12,200 people and wounded 2,700 more in Israeli cities. To know more watch this interview with former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for East Asia, Col Heino Klink(R).

Israel-Hamas war: Biggest & deadliest incursion since the Yom Kippur war

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken meets Netanyahu, vows support to defend Israel

Tales of Wars continue for the people of Gaza as the intensified Israeli bombings in Gaza have led to a scarcity of facilities on the medical front. The Palestinian Health Ministry mentioned that they are running out of beds to accommodate the wounded. Our report tells you more.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel imposes total blockade on Gaza after deadly Hamas attack

Israel has wanted to annihilate Hamas and retribution for the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust. Tel Aviv has forces, tanks other heavy armor around Gaza in its retaliatory operation and we have Jodie Cohen reports from Ra'anana in Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza hospitals risk turning into morgues, says Red Cross

Israel is far superior to Hamas. However, the militant group has been using an ingenious weapon to surprise the Israelis. They have dug a labyrinth of tunnels deep inside Gaza. These tunnels are used to smuggle & store weapons. Wion's Ghadi Francis visited these tunnels in 2013. Since then, these tunnels have expanded deeper and wider. Take a look at this report to get a sense of the City of Tunnels.

Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape

According to a report published in Bloomberg, Israeli troops are massing for a suspected ground invasion of Gaza. The country's national security establishment and public have been demanding retribution for the attacks carried out by the Hamas militants over the weekend, which took the lives of more than 1,300 Israelis.&nbsp;

However, it will be a complicated task for the Israeli Army to carry out a ground invasion considering the dense population of Gaza, its complex underground network of tunnels and the threat that the Israelis, Americans and others have been facing as hostages.&nbsp;

"The problem is that it's basically house-to-house fighting once you get into Gaza. And so it could be a heavy price," said former US defence secretary and CIA director Leon Panetta on Tuesday (Oct 10) while speaking on Bloomberg Television's "Balance of Power."

"But on the other hand, I think it's very clear that Israel has made the decision that they have got to crush Hamas in Gaza," he added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-always-back-israel-says-blinken-to-netanyahu-on-solidarity-visit-645919">US will always 'back' Israel, says Blinken to Netanyahu on solidarity visit</a>

An invasion would lead to heavy casualties on the two sides and questions about whether Israel can plan an exit strategy for the conflict.

This can also lead to ripple effects throughout the Middle East and endanger the fragile rapprochement of Israel with its Arab neighbours, increasing the risks of conflict turning into a broader regional war.

According to an official, an invasion may look like the 2004 battle for Fallujah in Iraq which also involved bloody street-to-street fighting.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel's severe response to Gaza&nbsp;</h2>

No announcement has been made by Israel about sending troops into Gaza, however, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that "what we will do to our enemies in the coming days will reverberate with them for generations."

As per the report, &nbsp;the developments taking place on the ground clearly suggest that something big is being planned by Israel.

Tel Aviv has been bombarding Gaza from the land, air and sea. A base is being built by the military next to the Gaza Strip to accommodate tens of thousands of soldiers as columns of Israeli tanks continue moving towards the region.

Already 300,000 reservists have been mobilised by the country.&nbsp;

WATCH | Israel-Palestine war: Gazans reel under indiscriminate air strikes, dwindling supplies

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-gazans-reel-under-indiscriminate-air-strikes-dwindling-supplies-645784/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Israel is going to respond very severely and aggressively and there will be more loss of life," said Richard Hecht, a spokesman for the Israeli military, while speaking to journalists on Tuesday (Oct 10).&nbsp;

The experts feel that there is a high possibility of a ground invasion by Israel because of the limitations of aerial warfare in Gaza.

It is being said that the airstrikes will not be able to clear out the underground weapons stockpiles, tunnels, and smuggling routes that made the Hamas attack possible on Saturday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

According to a report published in Bloomberg, Israeli troops are massing for a suspected ground invasion of Gaza. The country's national security establishment and public have been demanding retribution for the attacks carried out by the Hamas militants over the weekend, which took the lives of more than 1,300 Israelis.

According to a report published in Bloomberg, Israeli troops are massing for a suspected ground invasion of Gaza. The country's national security establishment and public have been demanding retribution for the attacks carried out by the Hamas militants over the weekend, which took the lives of more than 1,300 Israelis. However, it will be a complicated task for the Israeli Army to carry out a ground invasion considering the dense population of Gaza, its complex underground network of tunnels and the threat that the Israelis, Americans and others have been facing as hostages. "The problem is that it's basically house-to-house fighting once you get into Gaza. And so it could be a heavy price," said former US defence secretary and CIA director Leon Panetta on Tuesday (Oct 10) while speaking on Bloomberg Television's "Balance of Power." "But on the other hand, I think it's very clear that Israel has made the decision that they have got to crush Hamas in Gaza," he added. ALSO READ | US will always 'back' Israel, says Blinken to Netanyahu on solidarity visit An invasion would lead to heavy casualties on the two sides and questions about whether Israel can plan an exit strategy for the conflict. This can also lead to ripple effects throughout the Middle East and endanger the fragile rapprochement of Israel with its Arab neighbours, increasing the risks of conflict turning into a broader regional war. According to an official, an invasion may look like the 2004 battle for Fallujah in Iraq which also involved bloody street-to-street fighting. Israel's severe response to Gaza No announcement has been made by Israel about sending troops into Gaza, however, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that "what we will do to our enemies in the coming days will reverberate with them for generations." As per the report, the developments taking place on the ground clearly suggest that something big is being planned by Israel. Tel Aviv has been bombarding Gaza from the land, air and sea. A base is being built by the military next to the Gaza Strip to accommodate tens of thousands of soldiers as columns of Israeli tanks continue moving towards the region. Already 300,000 reservists have been mobilised by the country. WATCH | Israel-Palestine war: Gazans reel under indiscriminate air strikes, dwindling supplies "Israel is going to respond very severely and aggressively and there will be more loss of life," said Richard Hecht, a spokesman for the Israeli military, while speaking to journalists on Tuesday (Oct 10). The experts feel that there is a high possibility of a ground invasion by Israel because of the limitations of aerial warfare in Gaza. It is being said that the airstrikes will not be able to clear out the underground weapons stockpiles, tunnels, and smuggling routes that made the Hamas attack possible on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ground invasion of Gaza? Israel planning 'something big', says report

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