Israeli Official: 36 Tunnels Have Been Uncovered That are Crossing into Israel

A central goal of Israel's military action in Gaza is to destroy tunnels used by Hamas to smuggle weapons and launch attacks.

Yigal Palmor, a spokesman for the Israeli Foreign Ministry, spoke to CNN's Kate Bolduan Monday and said they have uncovered some 36 tunnels crossing from Gaza into southern Israel.

"The IDF has now destroyed approximately 16 or 17 tunnels at this moment and they are continuing their operations to blow up and destroy other tunnels," Palmor said.

"We know that Hamas has used them on various occasions and has planned on using them again for major territory attacks on communities in the south of Israel and, therefore, it is essential that we destroy all of  them."

Meanwhile, chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat was asked on the show what he believes the tunnels are for.

"I know the situation is so much complex - I'm not saying I know the picture as a whole," he responded.

But, he said, Gaza is now like a burning building.

"We need to get the people out, and then we need to extinguish the fire, and then we sit down and talk."

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