One Hamas’ strategies is to shield itself behind civilian life in Gaza. In the midst of the Israel-Hamas war, stories continue to surface of civilians helping Hamas.
On Friday, Dec. 29, Straight Arrow News reported stories of hostages who said they were held captive by civilians inside of civilian homes.
Now, video from the Israeli military shows Hamas weapons have also been found stored inside civilian homes.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) body cam footage displays soldiers and K-9 officers in action. The dogs detect explosives, identify weapons, scan rooms, and clear houses. According to the IDF, these dogs have also thwarted ambushes by Hamas militants.
The K-9 officers often serve as the first line of defense.
The K-9s uncovered dozens of weapons stockpiles, detected 50 booby-trapped explosive devices, and found a barrel of explosives, according to the IDF’s press release.
Some of the discoveries have been deadly. Four K-9s died during missions on the ground.
Israel’s military said the K-9 missions have saved many soldiers’ lives by successfully preventing Hamas ambushes.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pulled back thousands of troops from Gaza, but it’s not a sign the war is slowing; rather, it is prolonging as Israel prepares itself for a long-term fight against Hamas.
