Media: Hamas turns to sea routes to smuggle rockets into Gaza

Hamas has reportedly altered its smuggling tactics into the Gaza Strip, turning to maritime routes in place of trucks and underground tunnels.

The Israeli television channel reported that the group is being assisted by networks operating in the Sinai Peninsula. These groups allegedly drop containers loaded with contraband into the Mediterranean Sea roughly eight kilometres off Gaza’s coastline. Carried by sea currents, the containers are said to reach the shores of the enclave within 10 to 14 hours.

Hamas reportedly maintains that the method enables the shipments to evade radar detection due to what it describes as “sea noise” and high waves. At the same time, the organization is said to be conducting diversionary operations involving drones that transport weapons across the Israel–Egypt border.

The maritime smuggling route is being used to covertly deliver key components for Hamas’ rocket systems into Gaza. Among the materials reportedly transported is solid rocket fuel, which significantly enhances the range and reliability of the group’s projectiles.

The broadcaster assessed that the development signals a potential revival of Hamas’ strategic capabilities, despite ongoing restrictions and operational challenges facing the organization.

By Vafa Guliyeva