As the Israel-Hamas conflict intensifies, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are reportedly utilizing innovative new weapons like the so-called "sponge bomb" to target Hamas' vast underground tunnel network in Gaza.
The Sponge Bomb consists of two liquid chemical compounds separated by a divider. When the divider is removed, the chemicals rapidly expand into a solid foam that can quickly seal off tunnel passageways. Unlike traditional explosives, the foam does not detonate but instead expands to block tunnels, preventing militants from staging underground ambushes on Israeli troops.
The maze-like network of tunnels in Gaza, dubbed the "Gaza Metro," is believed to span hundreds of miles and allow Hamas to move weapons and fighters undetected. Preparing for a potential ground invasion, the IDF has been rigorously training specialist tunnel reconnaissance units using advanced sensors and drones like the throwable IRIS drone to navigate the tunnels.
However, the chemical Sponge Bombs pose risks, as the volatile liquid has blinded some Israeli soldiers during training. Drones and robots like the MTGR may provide safer tunnel reconnaissance. There are also moral dilemmas, as many tunnels run under civilian areas. Destroying them risks Palestinian lives and international condemnation.
If deployed carefully, Sponge Bombs could allow Israel to neutralize threats and gain a crucial advantage against Hamas and its tunnel network. With over 7,000 reported Palestinian deaths and 220 hostages taken by Hamas, Israel is hoping innovative weapons like the Sponge Bomb can help secure the tunnels without further loss of civilian life.
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