The Times of Israel Daily Briefing Day 770 - John Spencer: Hamas can be demilitarized. Here's how
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Nov 14, 2025 
John Spencer, Chair of War Studies at the Madison Policy Forum, dives deep into the complexities of Hamas's extensive tunnel network. He discusses the strategic implications of the tunnels, likening them to an ant farm, and highlights the IDF's innovative tactics in neutralizing them. Spencer also explores the proposed international security force aimed at demilitarizing Hamas, emphasizing the necessity of a strong mandate. He contrasts past international efforts with potential future successes, focusing on local stabilization rather than nation-building.
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Gaza's Massive Underground Network
- Gaza contains an extensive, layered tunnel network approaching 1,000 kilometers that functions like a vast underground city.
- John Spencer warns this “Swiss cheese” of tunnels makes identifying and neutralizing Hamas subterranean forces extremely difficult.
On-the-Ground Observations In Gaza
- Spencer visited Gaza City and observed Hamas fighters still emerging from tunnels during his trip a month earlier.
- He recounts how the IDF used statistical drilling to confirm tunnels to Egypt had been remediated.
Tunnel Destruction Is A Massive Engineering Task
- Destroying Gaza's tunnels is a long, continuous engineering effort requiring mapping, clearance, and demolition.
- Spencer emphasizes that decades of tunneling mean the IDF has worked nonstop for years and still hasn't cleared most of it.