IDF Says Hamas Document Proposed Explosives Around Gaza Shelters

The IDF said it was disclosing for the first time an internal Hamas planning document written in April 2024. According to the military, Hamas's engineering department proposed placing explosives around Gaza shelters and detonating them as Israeli troops approached, creating panic to cover leaders' and operatives' escape despite the danger to civilians. The proposals also included explosives along routes residents might use to obstruct advancing troops. The IDF said the document additionally suggested sound-producing munitions inside shelters to sow panic and facilitate escape. The release described proposed tactics, without confirming that they were carried out.