IDF Denies Tunnel Discovery in Qalqilya, Cites Shafts and Weapons Cache

During a nighttime operation in Qalqilya, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, Border Police (MAGAV) officers, and Judea and Samaria District police forces discovered two shafts approximately 12 meters deep. The operation, led by the Ephraim Brigade, was initiated based on intelligence regarding weapons in the area. Adjacent to the shafts, an M16 rifle, a hunting rifle, a pistol, and ammunition were found and confiscated. Four individuals suspected of terrorist activities were apprehended and handed over for interrogation.

Following an examination of the shafts, specialists concluded they were not tunnel entrances and did not lead to any underground tunnel network. It was also noted that the shafts were not located near the border fence. The IDF statement emphasized that these findings contradicted earlier "official and irresponsible reports" about the discovery of a tunnel.

Previously, police had reported the discovery of "tunnel infrastructure" under construction in Qalqilya, at least 25 meters deep, and the beginning of another tunnel nearby. That report also mentioned the seizure of an M16, a sniper rifle, ammunition, magazines, and fertilizers potentially used for explosives. Several Israeli media outlets, citing this report, published stories about a "terrorist tunnel" found near Kfar Saba.

Security forces are continuing extensive searches in Qalqilya to determine if other shafts exist in the area and to locate additional weapons caches. The reason for the discrepancy between the initial police report and the subsequent IDF statement remains unclear.