22 Covert Palestinian Cell Antennas Found in Jerusalem's Old City

An independent Palestinian telecommunications infrastructure, operating outside existing agreements, has been discovered within Jerusalem's Old City, according to an investigation by Kan.

During on-site checks, 22 antennas belonging to two Palestinian Authority (PA) mobile operators were identified across various sectors of the Old City, with a notable concentration in the Christian Quarter. The practical reach of this network was demonstrated when a phone with a Palestinian SIM card dialed the Israeli emergency number 100 from the Old City; the call was routed to the PA police emergency center instead of Israeli police.

Under the Oslo Accords, Palestinian operators can serve subscribers in Israel only through roaming agreements utilizing Israeli infrastructure. However, the mapping in the Old City indicates these are physically installed antennas, not simple roaming.

Cybersecurity researcher Dan, who mapped the setup, stated these 22 antennas provide full cellular coverage for Palestinian networks in the area. Specialists also warn of a security risk, suggesting the use of 2G and 3G technology could allow hostile actors to intercept or monitor communications. "It's not just the Palestinian Authority, it's also Hamas and Iran. They can all listen to you," one specialist cautioned.

The Israeli Ministry of Communications has launched an inquiry after being alerted by Kan to locate the antennas and assess the situation. The Jerusalem Municipality stated that no permits or authorizations were ever requested or issued for the installation of such antennas in the city.