IN COLOR: IDF discovers vast Hamas tunnel network in Northern Gaza

Israeli forces have discovered and destroyed an extensive underground Hamas tunnel system in northern Gaza's Jabaliya area, marking a significant development in their ongoing ground operations, military officials announced Thursday.

The network, stretching hundreds of meters, included dozens of booby-trapped entrance shafts and was equipped with blast doors, living quarters, and weapons storage facilities, according to the IDF.

The operation was carried out by the Gaza Division's Northern Brigade (143), working alongside specialized engineering units including the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit, military spokesperson said in a statement.

"This tunnel system served as an operational hub for Hamas militants to launch attacks against our forces," a senior IDF officer told reporters during a briefing, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security protocols.