In maze of tight alleyways and drab buildings, decorated by army’s sole official graffiti artist, soldiers hone skills needed for conflict in Gaza Strip, West Bank or even Lebanon.

The military began building the $45 million facility in the Tzeelim army base in 2005, toward the end of the second Palestinian intifada. Over the previous five years, Israeli troops had battled Palestinian terrorists in cities and towns across the West Bank and Gaza. Since then, Israel has fought four wars in Gaza against the Islamic terror group Hamas, with some battles erupting in densely populated cities and refugee camps.

In each war, Israel has been accused of using disproportionate force in crowded residential areas, contributing to the civilian death toll. The military says it makes every effort to spare civilians, while accusing Palestinian terrorists of using them as human shields. “The nature of war has changed,” said Col. Eli Abeles, the facility’s commander. “Today our principal fighting… is done around built-up areas and in built-up areas.”

As reported by The Times of Israel
Image source: Oded Balilty/AP