Israel Foils Major Arms Smuggling Attempt Near Jordanian Border

Israeli security forces, in a joint operation involving the military, police, and border guards, have thwarted an attempt to smuggle 36 weapons across the eastern border near the Jordan Valley. The operation, which took place on Thursday, resulted in the apprehension of two suspects and the seizure of the weapons.

According to the Israeli military, surveillance units detected preparatory activities for a smuggling attempt along the eastern border. In response, forces from the Jordan Valley Brigade, in cooperation with the Jordan Border Police unit and West Bank border guards, set up ambushes and employed technological means to monitor the area.

The police reported that the suspects, identified as residents of Jericho around 50 years old, were arrested during the operation. The seized weapons included 34 pistols and two M16 rifles. The military confirmed the seizure of over 30 pistols and two M16 rifles.

The two suspects and the confiscated weapons have been transferred to the central unit of the Judea and Samaria division for further investigation. Israeli security officials stated that such smuggled weapons could end up in the hands of armed groups or be used for criminal and security-related activities, underscoring the ongoing need for border surveillance and enforcement.

Security forces continue to maintain a presence in the area and work to prevent further smuggling attempts.