Hamas fighters trapped in Rafah tunnels

Darwin, 07 November—

Several dozen Hamas fighters remain trapped inside the Rafah tunnel network, unable to leave despite the ceasefire because the area around the tunnels is being held by Israeli forces, Reuters reported on Thursday (Nov. 6).

Egypt, acting as a mediator, has put forward a proposal intended to allow those fighters to exit the tunnels safely. Under the Egyptian proposal, Hamas fighters would be permitted to leave the tunnel complex if they surrender their weapons — and, as a condition, would have to leave Gaza after emerging.

According to Reuters, the trapped fighters are located in sectors of Rafah designated by Israel as a so-called “yellow line” during the ceasefire. Israeli officials are divided over how to respond. Some oppose allowing the Hamas fighters to leave; others are open to it under restrictive conditions.

The United States has been pressing Israel to permit a safe passage for the trapped militants, sources said, while Israel has sought concessions in return. Israeli military chief Yaal Jamir was quoted as saying that Israel would allow the fighters to exit safely if Hamas first returns the remains of soldier Hadar Goldin.

The situation underscores the diplomatic and operational dilemmas surrounding the Rafah front during the ceasefire, with mediators pushing for solutions to avoid further bloodshed while Israel weighs security and political demands.

Source: Reuters.