Israel preparing 'sponge bomb' as its secret weapon to block Gaza tunnels

Israel is set to employ innovative “sponge bombs” as a strategic tool in its operations to combat the network of Hamas tunnels beneath Gaza. According to a report by Telegraph, these sponge bombs, a unique creation of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), do not contain explosives but serve the purpose of sealing off gaps or tunnel entrances from which enemy fighters might emerge. The IDF has maintained a tight-lipped stance on the utilization of these so-called “sponge bombs,” which unleash a sudden burst of foam that rapidly expands and solidifies. In the year 2021, observant eyes witnessed IDF personnel deploying these ingenious devices during training exercises. A mock tunnel system was established at the Tze’Elim army base, located near the Gaza border, to hone the skills required to navigate these underground passages. As the IDF prepares for the impending ground invasion, it is imperative to acknowledge the challenging and potentially perilous journey its troops might undertake within the extensive labyrinth of tunnels known colloquially as the “Gaza Metro.” This network extends for hundreds of miles and is designed with various traps, providing cover for Hamas fighters and shelter for its leadership. By preventing ambushes as soldiers advance deeper into the network, the “sponge bomb” would close off openings that Hamas may exploit. These specialized gadgets are housed in a plastic container with a metal divider between two liquids. The compounds combine as the soldier positions or launches the “bomb” forward after removing this barrier. In order to find tunnels, specialized teams within the IDF’s engineering corps were organized into tunnel reconnaissance units and outfitted with ground penetrating radar, aerial and ground sensors, and specialized drilling systems. As per the report, the IDF have also been given specialized equipment that allows them to see underground. Although ambient light is necessary for night vision goggles to function properly, soldiers moving underground will have to rely only on thermal technology to see in complete darkness because all natural light is shut out. New radios have also been developed that are specifically designed to function in the harsh circumstances found beneath. Drones and robots may also be used by Israel to assist in tunnel navigation, though their deployment underground has proven challenging thus far.