Tunnel operators: Gaza tunnels are being flooded by Egypt Tunnel operators in Rafah, on the border between Egypt and Gaza, say tunnels are being flooded by sewage water from the Egyptian side, weakening their structure and ability to operate, in an attempt to restrict smuggling. The tunnels have been a vital lifeline for the flow of food, clothes, building materials and fuel into the impoverished territory, which Israel has blockaded since 2006. Images and soundbites