In the weeks leading up to the Gaza ceasefire on October 10, Israel deployed a new type of weapon: M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers packed with between 1 and 3 tons of explosives, according to Reuters\u2019 investigation. The aim was to accelerate demolitions as troops advanced toward central Gaza City.<\/p>\n
As tanks and airstrikes supported infantry, these APCs contributed to the destruction of numerous buildings in densely populated areas. Drone footage and satellite images indicate extensive collapse of structures in Tel al-Hawa and Sabra, with nearby homes damaged or obliterated.<\/p>\n
Residents report that, in many cases, people fled after Israeli warnings, yet some families were displaced despite such warnings. In one notable instance, a five-storey home on Dawla Street in Tel al-Hawa was destroyed by an APC blast on September 14, leaving more than 40 relatives homeless.<\/p>\n
Reuters\u2019 review of satellite imagery and expert analyses identified at least two detonated APCs among the rubble in Gaza City. Remains of the vehicles and scattered debris were observed in the area during investigations conducted in November.<\/p>\n
Analysts estimate the ordnance inside APCs ranged from 1 to 3 tonnes, inferred from cabin space and wreckage. The strength of these explosions could produce blast effects comparable to some large airborne munitions and cause widespread damage to nearby buildings.<\/p>\n
The use of APCs as weapons is described as highly unusual by military experts consulted for the report, given the civilian density of the areas targeted. Israel\u2019s military said it follows rules of war and uses engineering equipment for operational purposes, without detailing specific targets.<\/p>\n
Hamas, via its spokesperson, denied that booby traps or widespread device placements justified the demolitions, arguing that the actions aimed to displace residents. The report notes that international observers and scholars question whether such scale of destruction complies with humanitarian law when civilian infrastructure is affected.<\/p>\n
The investigation also covers the broader context: thousands of APCs have been used amid a shortage of other demolition tools, including Caterpillar D9 bulldozers, and amid shifts in weapon stockpiles and procurement. Israel\u2019s government and allied agencies did not respond to Reuters on several technical questions.<\/p>\n
Satellite analysis shows that around 650 buildings in Sabra, Tel al-Hawa and nearby areas were demolished or heavily damaged in the six weeks before the ceasefire, underscoring the scale of urban destruction in south-central Gaza City.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"