"The same source also revealed that tunnel workers usually worked an 8-12 hour day, and were paid the equivalent of between $150-$300, monthly.

The majority of the tunnels were reportedly dug in civilian areas on purpose, to maximize Palestinian deaths during expected Israeli reprisals, and were often beneath homes, chicken coops and pens, around a mile from the Israeli border.

The Gazan source, speaking about the executions themselves. explained:

"They were very cruel. They annihilated some of the diggers because there was a rumor circulating that a few of them had worked with Israel or had been in touch with Israeli civilians. They feared that Israel would know the location of the tunnels and who was involved in their making."

From the Hamas perspective, locating the tunnel entrances in private homes, schools, and mosques could only lead to a win-win scenario.

If Israel couldn't locate the tunnels, then the terrorists could enter and leave Israel at will. However, if Israel discovered the tunnels, their destruction would result directly, or indirectly, in the deaths of civilians."