IDF Discovers Mortar Rounds Concealed in UNRWA Aid in Southern Gaza

On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the discovery of approximately 110 mortar rounds, along with rockets and other military items, concealed within humanitarian aid bags provided by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in southern Gaza. This operation was conducted by the IDF's 7th Armoured Brigade as part of efforts to clear the ceasefire area known as the "Yellow Line," which marks the boundary of Israeli control in the region. Since the October 2025 ceasefire, Israel has maintained control over 53% of Gaza, while Hamas governs the remaining 47%, which includes the majority of the territory's population exceeding two million.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aidMortars found in Gaza hidden in UN Relief Agency’s aid bags

The IDF's find is notable as it represents one of the largest single discoveries of longer-range weapons since the ceasefire began. Typically, the IDF uncovers smaller quantities of low-grade weapons, making this significant haul of mortars particularly unusual. These mortars pose a direct threat, as they can be fired from Gaza into Israeli territory, primarily targeting nearby border towns.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aid

The discovery has intensified scrutiny of UNRWA's operations in Gaza. Israel has accused the agency of complicity in Hamas's activities, alleging that it has turned a blind eye to the presence of weapons within its facilities. Following the October 7 massacre, which involved some UNRWA employees, Israel has taken decisive actions against the agency, including banning its operations within Israel and dismantling its Jerusalem offices. This has been part of a broader Israeli strategy to expose what it describes as UNRWA's double-dealing with Hamas.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aidMortars found in Gaza hidden in UN Relief Agency’s aid bags

The IDF emphasized the significance of this discovery, framing it as evidence of Hamas's ongoing militarization efforts and the misuse of humanitarian aid for military purposes. The Israeli government has reiterated its stance against UNRWA, citing security concerns and the need to protect its citizens from potential threats emanating from Gaza.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aid

Critics of Israel's actions argue that the blanket condemnation of UNRWA undermines humanitarian efforts in Gaza, where many civilians rely on the agency for essential aid. They contend that the focus on alleged misconduct by some employees should not overshadow the vital services UNRWA provides to the population in need.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aid

While the IDF's announcement highlights the discovery of a significant cache of weapons, there are varying accounts regarding the extent of UNRWA's involvement with Hamas. Some sources suggest that the agency has taken steps to ensure its operations are not compromised by militant activities, while others maintain that the evidence of complicity is substantial.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aid

• “Israel banned UNRWA, which worked in Gaza, from operating in the country after it was proven that some of its own employees were Hamas terrorists who took part in the October 7 massacre.” — Israeli Government Official

Mortars found in Gaza hidden in UN Relief Agency’s aid bags

This discovery underscores the ongoing complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly regarding the intersection of humanitarian aid and security concerns in the region.

IDF finds large cache of Hamas weapons in UNRWA aid