Exploring the feasibility of using seawater to flood Gaza’s tunnels, this article delves into the scientific and practical aspects of this strategy, with insights from experts.
In a recent analysis, a political geography expert suggested that Hamas might use what he termed a “seawater flood bomb” to impede the progress of Israeli forces in Gaza. This concept, theoretically viable, remains impractical in many respects. The American newspaper “The Wall Street Journal” also discussed a similar strategy proposed by Israel, aiming to flood the tunnels of the Qassam Brigades to disrupt this significant weapon of the resistance.
Experts consulted by Al Jazeera Net deem the scenario proposed by the Indian expert scientifically possible but practically unlikely. The plan announced by “The Wall Street Journal” is considered improbable both scientifically and practically, despite American media promotion.
The analysis by Indian expert Rubinder Sachdev, published on “American Bazaar,” is based on the fact that 25% of Gaza’s area is below sea level. The hypothesis involves Hamas creating underwater tunnels connected to the Mediterranean Sea. These tunnels, upon detonation of remote-controlled bombs at their sea entry points, would rapidly flood the low-lying areas of Gaza.
Physics suggests that once the seaward tunnel ends explode, seawater would rush in fiercely, creating wetlands and swamps that could hamper heavy artillery and tanks, effectively forming a “denial weapon.”
However, Muhammad Al-Hajri, head of the Irrigation and Drainage Unit at the Egyptian Desert Research Center, doubts the practicality of this plan. He highlights the improbability of Hamas transforming 25% of Gaza’s territory into unbeneficial saltwater pools.
Regarding Israel’s reported plan to flood the resistance tunnels with seawater, Al-Hajri and others see it as unfeasible both scientifically and practically. The “Wall Street Journal” cited American officials stating that Israel has developed a large pumping system potentially used for this purpose. Still, Al-Hajri outlines two scenarios for such an operation, both doomed to failure due to geological and logistical challenges.
Mazen Qumsiyeh, director and founder of the Palestine Museum of Natural History and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University, dismisses the use of seawater bombs as overly simplistic and unrealistic. He doubts that the resistance, committed to defending the land, would resort to such destructive tactics.
While the concept of flooding tunnels with seawater might appear straightforward, the practical implementation is fraught with challenges, including geological factors and the secretive nature of tunnel networks. The differing soil compositions across Gaza, ranging from clay in the north to sand in the south, present varying degrees of feasibility for such plans.
Despite the challenges, the potential impact on Gaza’s already fragile infrastructure and groundwater resources cannot be ignored. Over 95% of Gaza’s groundwater is unsuitable for consumption, heavily polluted with chemicals, sewage, and seawater intrusion. This situation would worsen if large-scale seawater flooding occurred.
In conclusion, while the scientific basis for using seawater to flood Gaza’s tunnels exists, the practicality, effectiveness, and potential collateral damage render these strategies highly questionable.
For more detailed analysis and updates, visit dzwatch.net.
