Thousands Of Unexploded Israeli Bombs In Gaza Provide Hamas With Weapons

| Published May 8, 2025

Israeli munitions that failed to detonate have been repurposed by the Al-Qassam Brigades to build explosives used against Israeli forces, according to local media

In the aftermath of Israel’s extensive military operations in Gaza since October 2023, a significant number of unexploded munitions have been left behind. Estimates suggest that between 5% and 10% of the approximately 40,000 bombs dropped failed to detonate, resulting in thousands of unexploded ordnance (UXO) scattered across the territory .

These UXOs have inadvertently become a resource for Hamas’s armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. Reports indicate that Hamas operatives have been recovering these unexploded bombs to extract explosives for manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rockets, and other weaponry . This repurposing of Israeli munitions has been linked to several attacks on Israeli forces, including incidents where IEDs made from salvaged bombs caused significant damage to military equipment and personnel .

The presence of UXOs poses a dual threat: they not only provide materials for continued hostilities but also endanger civilians returning to their homes. The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) estimates that it could take up to 14 years and approximately $500 million to clear Gaza of unexploded ordnance and rubble . This prolonged clearance process hampers reconstruction efforts and prolongs the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The unintended consequence of unexploded Israeli bombs being repurposed by Hamas underscores the complex challenges in post-conflict zones. It highlights the importance of addressing UXOs promptly to prevent further escalation and to facilitate the safe return and rebuilding of affected communities.

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Pros and Cons of Unexploded Israeli Bombs in Gaza Being Used by Hamas

Pros:

1. Strategic Advantage for Hamas:

   • Hamas can convert unexploded bombs into improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rockets, and other weapons, increasing their combat capabilities without relying on external suppliers.

2. Cost-Effective for Hamas:

   • Extracting explosives from unexploded ordnance (UXO) reduces the need for Hamas to purchase or smuggle weapon materials, making their operations more sustainable.

3. Symbolic Resistance:

   • Utilizing enemy munitions against the enemy can be seen as a morale booster for Hamas, portraying their ability to turn Israeli military actions against Israel.

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Cons:

1. Increased Danger to Civilians:

   • Thousands of unexploded bombs pose a significant threat to residents returning to affected areas, with a high risk of accidental detonation.

2. Obstruction of Humanitarian Efforts:

   • The presence of UXOs hampers reconstruction and humanitarian work, as clearing these dangerous munitions is time-consuming and costly.

3. Prolonged Conflict:

   • Access to a steady supply of explosives allows Hamas to continue hostilities, making it difficult to achieve long-term peace in the region.

4. Environmental and Health Hazards:

   • Explosives and toxic residues from unexploded bombs can contaminate soil and water, posing long-term health risks to the local population.

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Conclusion

The presence of thousands of unexploded Israeli bombs in Gaza has created a complex and dangerous situation. While Hamas has found a way to turn these munitions into a strategic asset, the resulting threats to civilian safety, humanitarian efforts, and regional stability far outweigh any perceived benefits. This development highlights the unintended and often tragic consequences of modern warfare, where even unexploded weapons continue to cause harm long after the fighting has subsided. Addressing this issue requires a coordinated international effort to clear unexploded ordnance, protect civilian lives, and support sustainable peace in the region.

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SOURCES: ZEROHEDGE – Thousands Of Unexploded Israeli Bombs In Gaza Provide Hamas With Weapons

ANADOLU AJANSI – Thousands of unexploded Israeli bombs have become key resource for Hamas wing in Gaza: Report

REUTERS – Gazans survive among unexploded bombs

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