IDF Forces Discover Two More Tunnel Shafts Near Qalqilya

Israeli military engineers, known as Yahalom, have located two additional tunnel shafts in the Qalqilya region, just one day after discovering a previous shaft in the same area. According to the IDF Spokesperson's Unit, the newly found shafts were approximately 12 meters deep. Close to these shafts, forces discovered weapons including an M16 rifle, a hunting rifle, a pistol, and ammunition, all of which were confiscated. The IDF clarified that, contrary to some official statements, investigations revealed no actual tunnel routes within these shafts, nor were they close to the "Seam Zone" (the area between Israel and the West Bank). During the operation, four terror suspects were apprehended and are currently being interrogated by security forces. Security forces are continuing extensive operations in the area to locate and neutralize any further shafts and to find additional weapons. The IDF stated its commitment to proactively counter terrorism throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and ensure resident safety.

Earlier, Yossi Dagan, head of the Shomron Regional Council, called for an emergency discussion following the discovery of the shafts. Dagan expressed concern, stating that the Qalqilya tunnel discovery should be a major alarm for Israel. He highlighted that the city is located just meters from Israeli communities in the Sharon region, and that the previously found tunnel was 25 meters deep, with a sniper rifle and materials for explosives found nearby. Dagan drew parallels to the October 7th Hamas attack, emphasizing the danger of armed groups accumulating capabilities, training, weapons, and infrastructure over time. He urged the defense establishment to prepare a plan to counter a scenario where Palestinian Authority security mechanisms might act as a military force against Israel, a situation he termed "reverse barrels."