Take a look at the extensive labyrinth of tunnels built by the Hamas militant group which stretches across the densely populated strip, hiding fighters, their rockets and ammunition. The tunnels inside Gaza are believed to be as much as 30m (100ft) below the surface.

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Israel knocks out territory’s communications as it says it is ‘expanding’ ground operations in Gaza; UN general assembly passes resolution calling for truce.

Several Arab nations condemn Israeli strikes

In the last three weeks cities and towns in gaza have been destroyed by almost three weeks of israeli bombardments. Hamas took more than 200 hostages back into Gaza during its raids

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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Israel's army relentlessly hammered the territory on Saturday after fierce overnight bombardment that rescuers said destroyed hundreds of buildings three weeks into a war sparked by the deadliest attack in the country's history.&nbsp;

"Given the manner in which military operations have been conducted until now, in the context of the 56-year-old occupation, I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large-scale ground operations in Gaza and the potential for thousands more civilians to die," Turk said.&nbsp;

"There is no safe place in Gaza and there is no way out. I am very worried for my colleagues, as I am for all civilians in Gaza."&nbsp;

Watch | Russia-Ukraine War | European firms helping Russia produce dagger missiles: Report

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Israel unleashed its bombing campaign after Hamas gunmen stormed across the Gaza border on October 7, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and seizing more than 220 hostages, according to Israeli officials.&nbsp;

The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli strikes had killed 7,703 people, mainly civilians, including more than 3,500 children.&nbsp;

The UN rights chief also condemned the Internet and telecommunications blackout that has hit the Palestinian enclave since Friday.&nbsp;

"Compounding the misery and suffering of civilians, Israeli strikes on telecommunications installations and subsequent Internet shutdown have effectively left Gazans with no way of knowing what is happening across Gaza and cut them off from the outside world," he said.&nbsp;

"Ambulances and civil defence teams are no longer able to locate the injured, or the thousands of people estimated to be still under the rubble.&nbsp;

"When these hostilities end, those who have survived will face the rubble of their homes and the graves of their family members," Turk said.&nbsp;

He called on all parties "to do all in their power to de-escalate the conflict".&nbsp;

The conflict is the fifth and deadliest in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Palestinian territory in 2005.&nbsp;

The latest Israeli strikes against Hamas, the Islamist group that has ruled Gaza since 2007, were the most intense since the war broke out. They coincided with ground operations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned on Saturday there was the potential for thousands more civilians to die as Israel presses a ground operation in Gaza. Israel's army relentlessly hammered the territory on Saturday after fierce overnight bombardment that rescuers said destroyed hundreds of buildings three weeks into a war sparked by the deadliest attack in the country's history. "Given the manner in which military operations have been conducted until now, in the context of the 56-year-old occupation, I am raising alarm about the possibly catastrophic consequences of large-scale ground operations in Gaza and the potential for thousands more civilians to die," Turk said. "There is no safe place in Gaza and there is no way out. I am very worried for my colleagues, as I am for all civilians in Gaza." Watch | Russia-Ukraine War | European firms helping Russia produce dagger missiles: Report × Israel unleashed its bombing campaign after Hamas gunmen stormed across the Gaza border on October 7, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and seizing more than 220 hostages, according to Israeli officials. The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza said Israeli strikes had killed 7,703 people, mainly civilians, including more than 3,500 children. The UN rights chief also condemned the Internet and telecommunications blackout that has hit the Palestinian enclave since Friday. "Compounding the misery and suffering of civilians, Israeli strikes on telecommunications installations and subsequent Internet shutdown have effectively left Gazans with no way of knowing what is happening across Gaza and cut them off from the outside world," he said. "Ambulances and civil defence teams are no longer able to locate the injured, or the thousands of people estimated to be still under the rubble. "When these hostilities end, those who have survived will face the rubble of their homes and the graves of their family members," Turk said. He called on all parties "to do all in their power to de-escalate the conflict". The conflict is the fifth and deadliest in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the Palestinian territory in 2005. The latest Israeli strikes against Hamas, the Islamist group that has ruled Gaza since 2007, were the most intense since the war broke out. They coincided with ground operations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN warns of 'potential for thousands more to die' in Gaza

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The Israeli military maintained an active presence in southern Israel near the border with Gaza Saturday (October 28), after widening its air and ground attacks on the Palestinian enclave.

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The United States was strongly warned by Saudi officials that the ground invasion by the Israeli army into the Gaza Strip could turn catastrophic for West Asia. 
 
Member of the Armed Services Committee and Democrat of Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal was among one of the 10 senators, who held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last weekend in Riyadh. 
 
“The Saudi leadership was hopeful that a ground operation could be avoided for reasons of stability as well as the loss of life,” said Blumenthal, while speaking to The New York Times on Thursday (Oct 26). The government officials of Saudi Arabia that it would be “extremely harmful”, he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-descending-upon-gun-stores-in-large-numbers-after-oct-7-attack-652257">Israelis descending upon gun stores in large numbers after Oct 7 attack</a>

In various conversations with their American counterparts, senior Saudi officials have multiple times hinted at how a ground invasion can turn into a disaster for the whole region, as per one Saudi official, The New York Times reported. 
 
The exchanges took place as tensions continued to escalate in the Gaza Strip. An official of the Biden administration said that it has become evident that Saudi Arabia is against an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza.

<h2>US asserts Israel's right to self-defence</h2>

Repeatedly, the United States has asserted the right to self-defence of Israel since the Hamas attack in which more than 1,400 people were killed in Israel. 
 
“Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back,” United States President Joe Biden had stated recently. During the same time, Biden had appealed to Israel to delay the invasion of the Gaza Strip. 
 
The US officials had clarified that the request was made due to multiple reasons which included getting more humanitarian aid inside Gaza, taking more time to reach negotiations for release of hostages and doing better war planning.

Watch |&nbsp;20 days of Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces continue to pound Gaza | WION Pulse

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In the call held between Prince Mohammed and, Biden the leaders “agreed on pursuing broader diplomatic efforts to maintain stability across the region and prevent the conflict from expanding,” said the White House, in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 24). 
 
Prince Mohammed and President Biden, after sharing strained relations, have been able to find common ground earlier this year and have trying to finalise a deal, as per which Israel will be recognised by Saudi Arabi and diplomatic ties will be established between the two. 
 
Biden and his top aides have been eager to finalise an agreement, stating that it will reshape West Asia.

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.

(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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The United States was strongly warned by Saudi officials that the ground invasion by the Israeli army into the Gaza Strip could turn catastrophic for West Asia. Member of the Armed Services Committee and Democrat of Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal was among one of the 10 senators, who held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last weekend in Riyadh.

The United States was strongly warned by Saudi officials that the ground invasion by the Israeli army into the Gaza Strip could turn catastrophic for West Asia. Member of the Armed Services Committee and Democrat of Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal was among one of the 10 senators, who held talks with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last weekend in Riyadh. “The Saudi leadership was hopeful that a ground operation could be avoided for reasons of stability as well as the loss of life,” said Blumenthal, while speaking to The New York Times on Thursday (Oct 26). The government officials of Saudi Arabia that it would be “extremely harmful”, he said. ALSO READ | Israelis descending upon gun stores in large numbers after Oct 7 attack In various conversations with their American counterparts, senior Saudi officials have multiple times hinted at how a ground invasion can turn into a disaster for the whole region, as per one Saudi official, The New York Times reported. The exchanges took place as tensions continued to escalate in the Gaza Strip. An official of the Biden administration said that it has become evident that Saudi Arabia is against an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza. US asserts Israel's right to self-defence Repeatedly, the United States has asserted the right to self-defence of Israel since the Hamas attack in which more than 1,400 people were killed in Israel. “Let there be no doubt. The United States has Israel’s back,” United States President Joe Biden had stated recently. During the same time, Biden had appealed to Israel to delay the invasion of the Gaza Strip. The US officials had clarified that the request was made due to multiple reasons which included getting more humanitarian aid inside Gaza, taking more time to reach negotiations for release of hostages and doing better war planning. Watch | 20 days of Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces continue to pound Gaza | WION Pulse In the call held between Prince Mohammed and, Biden the leaders “agreed on pursuing broader diplomatic efforts to maintain stability across the region and prevent the conflict from expanding,” said the White House, in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 24). Prince Mohammed and President Biden, after sharing strained relations, have been able to find common ground earlier this year and have trying to finalise a deal, as per which Israel will be recognised by Saudi Arabi and diplomatic ties will be established between the two. Biden and his top aides have been eager to finalise an agreement, stating that it will reshape West Asia. 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. (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

Israel's ground invasion of Gaza can turn catastrophic, Saudi Arabia warns US

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The Israeli military maintained an active presence in southern Israel near the border with Gaza Saturday (October 28), after widening its air and ground attacks on the Palestinian enclave

Israel-Hamas war: Rockets fly across Israel-Gaza border

Qatar is back as the West Asian mediator. For years, it has hosted Hamas' leadership as well as the US' largest military base in the region. With the latest conflict going on Doha took the role of a middleman to facilitate the release of hostages.

Hezbollah ready for open war with Israel?

Amid death and devastation, some Palestinians enjoy the very basics of human life - life itself. They wind down for a few minutes, grateful for surviving the strikes. They put a brave face against the Israeli butchery in a brief respite from the grinding misery of war.

Palestinian children find small moments of joy midst of war

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised

Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians.

This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry&nbsp;released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes.

<h2>A mockery of tragedy</h2>

In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms.&nbsp;

An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children&nbsp;who can be seen taking part in the taunting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-releases-names-of-nearly-7000-people-killed-amid-israeli-strikes-651766">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes</a>

Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes.

One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children.

In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days.&nbsp;

<h2>A wave of outrage</h2>

The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight.&nbsp;

On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?"

Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-says-may-support-gaza-ceasefire-only-after-hostages-freed-650469">US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed</a>

One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!"

Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!"

Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."

(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.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Israeli citizens are making fun of Palestinian tragedies on the social media platform TikTok and netizens are not happy. As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 21st day, the internet is appalled as videos of a new TikTok trend are going viral. In these videos, people, allegedly Israeli citizens, can be seen mocking Palestinians. This comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry released a list of names of almost 7,000 Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes. A mockery of tragedy In these videos, people can be seen mocking different aspects of Palestinian suffering. Due to the sensitive nature of the videos, we have not attached them here, but they can easily be accessed on all social media platforms. An alarming aspect of these videos is the small children who can be seen taking part in the taunting. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza health ministry releases names of nearly 7,000 people 'killed' amid Israeli strikes Donning keffiyeh — a traditional headdress worn in many Middle Eastern nations, including Gaza, these people can be seen wearing makeup to appear injured and sprinkling talcum powder to make it seem like they're covered in dust or debris. In some videos, people carry dolls swaddled in cloth — a mockery of reports of the mothers who have lost their babies to the Israeli strikes. One such video poking fun at Palestinian mothers by an Israeli influencer identified by The Express Tribune as Eve Cohen sparked controversy earlier this week. Cohen in the video allegedly claimed that mothers are faking the deaths of their children. In others, they flaunt water, or light candles in the dark — jeering at Palestinians who have gone without water and power for days. A wave of outrage The videos by Cohen and others have predictably sparked widespread outrage. Netizens are calling out people in the videos for their apparent lack of sensitivity towards the Palestinian plight. On X, one user questioned, "Is Palestinian genocide the new source of Israeli comedy or something?" Another said that the videos were an "example of the anti-Palestinian racist conspiracy theory of 'pallywood,' where some Zionists argue that Palestinians manipulate media through 'faking suffering' - unsurprisingly, it's also very similar to anti-Semitic tropes too. Very telling about Israel supporters." Also read | US President Biden says may support Gaza ceasefire only after hostages are freed One user labelled the videos 'revolting' and cautioned, "Karma never fails, by the way!" Expressing alarm at these videos that also feature small children, one user wrote: "Wtf??? There kids are learning how to be racist from a very young age!!!!!!!!!" Others quoted the Bible and posted: "Galatians 6:7 (KJV) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is getting worse, which is why there are more strikes. In an attempt to save hostages and maintain the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, President Joe Biden stated on Wednesday that he "did not demand" that Israel postpone a ground invasion of the region.

Israel-Palestine war: UN convenes emergency meet on Israel-Hamas war

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.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions.&nbsp;

Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants.

<h2>How the 'Sponge Bomb' works</h2>

The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon&nbsp;and are different from traditional explosives.&nbsp;

They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead&nbsp;they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies.&nbsp;

In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-will-israel-hamas-war-cause-a-global-jihad-against-the-west-652050">Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West?</a>

Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages.&nbsp;

As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war".&nbsp;

These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier.&nbsp;

When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens.&nbsp;

<h2>Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units</h2>

As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021.

Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border.&nbsp;

Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-putin-russia-gets-orthodox-about-abortions-restricts-access-651903">Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access</a>

Additionally,&nbsp;troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without.

Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions.

Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance.

Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves.

<h2>Risks, complications and more</h2>

These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind.

Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-before-and-after-satellite-images-show-destruction-in-gaza-651992">Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza</a>

Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their&nbsp;purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks.&nbsp;

However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks.

<h2>A moral quandary</h2>

As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back&nbsp;in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas.

Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas."

While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives.

This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation.&nbsp;

"Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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.

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. As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, Israeli forces, as per reports, are set to use a 'novel' arsenal of tactics. This includes the use of innovative bomb known as "sponge bombs" which can seal off the intricate network of tunnels beneath Gaza without any explosions. Even as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have remained tight-lipped about the use of these "sponge bombs," it is reported that these weapons can seal off tunnel entrances and help prevent surprise attacks from Hamas militants. How the 'Sponge Bomb' works The "sponge bombs" are a chemical weapon and are different from traditional explosives. They do not explode in the traditional sense, instead they trigger a sudden explosion of foam. This foam, as per a Telegraph report, rapidly expands and solidifies. In this case, it can effectively block tunnel passageways like the so-called "Gaza Metro", preventing potential ambushes by militants emerging from these hidden pathways. Also read | Explained: Will Israel-Hamas war cause a global jihad against the West? Gaza Metro is a vast and intricate system of tunnels believed to span hundreds of miles. These tunnels are thought to be riddled with traps and are used by Hamas for a variety of purposes, including keeping the hostages. As per the report, it is also where the Hamas militant leaders "hope to survive the coming war". These curious, cutting-edge bombs are stored in plastic containers, which consist of two separate liquid compounds partitioned by a metal barrier. When the barrier is removed, the compounds blend, creating the foam. After removing the barrier, the sponge bomb is thrown into the tunnel, where it expands and hardens. Testing ground: Simulated tunnels and specialised units As per reports, even as the IDF remains tight-lipped about the bombs, its soldiers were first seen deploying them back in 2021. Now, to prepare for the impending ground invasion announced recently, IDF soldiers have been rigorously training in a mock tunnel system at the Tze’Elim army base near the Gaza border. Specialised tunnel reconnaissance units which include the IDF's engineering corps have been equipped with advanced ground and aerial sensors, ground-penetrating radar, and specialised drilling systems to locate and navigate the complex tunnel network, reports The Telegraph. Also read | Under Putin, Russia gets orthodox about abortions, restricts access Additionally, troops have been given equipment that uses thermal technology to "see" in the pitch-dark underground. While standard night vision goggles use ambient light, these can function without. Furthermore, they have been equipped with novel radios that can function even in underground conditions. Israel-based Roboteam technology company has also developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone, that boasts the capability to be operated remotely. The drone, which can provide critical insights and imagery from within the intricate tunnel network, is tailored to meet the demands of combat situations. It can even feature the capacity for attachments such as weapons, ensuring enhanced capabilities for potential threats that may be seen during reconnaissance. Alongside IRIS, Roboteam technology company has developed the MTGR (Micro Tactical Ground Robot). This as per reports can navigate stairs and confined spaces like caves. Risks, complications and more These advanced equipment comes with its own risk. The Sponge Bombs are made up of volatile liquid emulsion, which has resulted in unfortunate incidents, with some soldiers reportedly rendered blind. Due to this hazard, Israel may have to use technological adaptations, such as 'throwbots' which can relay the image back to the controller who can operate the robot safely from a distance. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Before and after satellite images show destruction in Gaza Micro-drones have also been proposed for reconnaissance, their purpose is to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimising potential risks. However, the operation of robots and drones within the underground passages has encountered several obstacles, including weak signals and navigation difficulties. Various technological adaptations, such as throwbots and micro-drones for reconnaissance, have been suggested, aiming to aid troops in navigating the intricate tunnel system while minimizing potential risks. A moral quandary As per Former Israeli military brigadier general Amir Avivi, "There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and, of course, they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions." Hamas is believed to have dug some of the Gaza tunnel network decades ago, back in the mid-1990s. As per reports, these tunnels have evolved into a multifaceted infrastructure. Much of it stretches under civilian structures, and has exit/entry points in civilian areas. Speaking to the press on Thursday (October 26th) an Israeli military spokesperson as quoted by Reuters said: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas." While the fascinating 'Sponge Bomb' come with limitless possibilities, their use poses a huge moral quandary. Targeting these tunnels means risking civilian lives. This makes it challenging for the IDF to 'neutralise' threats without endangering innocent lives and inviting international condemnation. "Sponge bombs" can provide Israel a crucial advantage in the war that has already crossed the 20-day mark. As per Israeli data, around 1,400 people have been killed and Hamas has taken another 220 hostage. On the other hand, the Hamas controlled Gaza health ministry has reported that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: 'Sponge Bomb,' Israel's new weapon to secure Hamas' underground tunnels

US has carried out airstrikes in Syria. Projectiles have hit towns in Egypt. America is sending 900 troops to West Asia. In Jordan, thousands are calling for annulment of peace treaty with Israel. The war in no longer limited to the Gaza strip.

Gravitas: Israel-Palestine war expands, strikes in Syria, Egypt

Even as reports suggest that about 7,000 Gazan have died in Israeli airstrikes since October 7, 2023, the Israeli Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon asserts that their military actions specifically target Hamas and not the civilian population, accusing Hamas of using civilians as human shields.

'Concerns about rise of ISIS if Hamas persists,' says Israel envoy on Gaza crisis | The India Story

The Hamas-run Health Ministry on Tuesday warned of the possible outbreak of a major epidemic wave in the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing Israeli airstrikes and siege on the Palestinian enclave.

Israel-Palestine war: Displaced Gazans shows signs of disease from over crowding, poor sanitation

Israel on Friday (Oct 27) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of abusing hospitals in the Gaza Strip for military purposes as the conflict in and around the Palestinian territory intensifies.

The Israeli military said that Hamas was using the hospital as a shield for its tunnels and operational centres.

"Hamas has turned hospitals into command and control centres and hideouts for Hamas terrorists and commanders," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israel's chief military spokesman, told a news conference.

Hagari said Hamas was using the hospital system to hide its command posts and entry points into the comprehensive tunnel network under Gaza.

He specifically identified Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest in Gaza, as one from which Hamas militants were operating.

"Hamas has turned hospitals into command and control centres and hideouts for Hamas terrorists and commanders. Additionally, I can confirm that according to the intelligence we have in our hands, there is fuel in hospitals in Gaza," Hagari said.

"Hamas terrorists operate inside and under Shifa Hospital and other hospitals in Gaza," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also took to his official X account and shared an illustration-based video showing how the militant group used Shifa Hospital as a shelter for its military operations from both above and below the ground.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-amid-fears-of-escalation-united-states-intensifies-deployment-of-forces-around-israel-651727">Explained | Amid fears of escalation, United States intensifies deployment of forces around Israel</a>

"Hamas-ISIS is sick. They turn hospitals into headquarters for their terror. We just released intelligence proving it. Hamas rejects," he wrote in a posting.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hamas-ISIS is sick. 
 
They turn hospitals into headquarters for their terror. 
 
We just released intelligence proving it. 
 
Here it is: <a href="https://t.co/F82OxaIPN6">pic.twitter.com/F82OxaIPN6</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1717916845859078531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Hamas rejects allegations</h2>

The Palestinian militant group fired back on the accusations by Israel and said that the claims were unfounded.

"There's no basis in truth in what the spokesman of the enemy army stated," said Izzat al-Rishq, a senior member of the Hamas political bureau. He accused Israel of making the allegations to "pave the way for a new massacre to be committed against our people".

Earlier, the Commissioner General for the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, rejected that any aid was being redirected.

"We have solid monitoring mechanisms... UNRWA does not and will not divert any humanitarian aid into the wrong hands," Lazzarini said.

(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.

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Israel on Friday (Oct 27) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of abusing hospitals in the Gaza Strip for military purposes as the conflict in and around the Palestinian territory intensifies.

Israel on Friday (Oct 27) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of abusing hospitals in the Gaza Strip for military purposes as the conflict in and around the Palestinian territory intensifies. The Israeli military said that Hamas was using the hospital as a shield for its tunnels and operational centres. "Hamas has turned hospitals into command and control centres and hideouts for Hamas terrorists and commanders," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israel's chief military spokesman, told a news conference. Hagari said Hamas was using the hospital system to hide its command posts and entry points into the comprehensive tunnel network under Gaza. He specifically identified Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest in Gaza, as one from which Hamas militants were operating. "Hamas has turned hospitals into command and control centres and hideouts for Hamas terrorists and commanders. Additionally, I can confirm that according to the intelligence we have in our hands, there is fuel in hospitals in Gaza," Hagari said. "Hamas terrorists operate inside and under Shifa Hospital and other hospitals in Gaza," he said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also took to his official X account and shared an illustration-based video showing how the militant group used Shifa Hospital as a shelter for its military operations from both above and below the ground. Also read: Explained | Amid fears of escalation, United States intensifies deployment of forces around Israel "Hamas-ISIS is sick. They turn hospitals into headquarters for their terror. We just released intelligence proving it. Hamas rejects," he wrote in a posting. Hamas-ISIS is sick. They turn hospitals into headquarters for their terror. We just released intelligence proving it. Here it is: pic.twitter.com/F82OxaIPN6 — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 27, 2023 × Hamas rejects allegations The Palestinian militant group fired back on the accusations by Israel and said that the claims were unfounded. "There's no basis in truth in what the spokesman of the enemy army stated," said Izzat al-Rishq, a senior member of the Hamas political bureau. He accused Israel of making the allegations to "pave the way for a new massacre to be committed against our people". Earlier, the Commissioner General for the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, rejected that any aid was being redirected. "We have solid monitoring mechanisms... UNRWA does not and will not divert any humanitarian aid into the wrong hands," Lazzarini said. (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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video: Netanyahu claims this is how Hamas uses hospitals as bases to attack Israel

Over 8800 people have died on both sides of the Gaza border since the Israel-Hamas war began. Israel has continued its airstrikes and is now preparing for a ground assault even as there is no end in sight for the hostage crisis or in civilian casualties. The united nations has now raised concerns about war crimes being committed on both the sides.

Israel-Hamas war: UN General Assembly holds another emergency session amidst war | WION Fineprint

The Joe Biden administration in the United States is preparing for the possibility of carrying out a mass evacuation of hundreds of thousands of American citizens from the Middle East if the ongoing conflict in Gaza isn't contained, the Washington Post reported citing officials.

Israel-Palestine war: Will the war spill over to rest of West Asia? | WION Fineprint

Cryptocurrency's role in terrorist financing and funding militant groups has come under renewed scrutiny. It comes following a deadly attack in Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas. Watch this video for all details.

Israel-Palestine war: Cryptocurrency feeds terrorism in West Asia

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