IDF, Police Clash Over Reported Tunnel Discovery Near Kfar Saba

A public dispute erupted between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Police following the police's announcement of discovering a tunnel near the Palestinian city of Qalqilya, just kilometers from Kfar Saba in central Israel. The police stated the tunnel reached a depth of 25 meters, and that weapons and materials for explosives were found. However, the IDF countered that while two shafts were found, no actual tunnel was identified. An IDF spokesperson stated that investigations ruled out the existence of a tunnel and its proximity to the seam line, though weapons including an M16 rifle and ammunition were seized near the shafts.

A senior police official suggested the IDF's response stemmed from being "hurt" at not receiving credit for the discovery. The police had reported the find was made during an operation by the Judea and Samaria District's crime-fighting unit and Border Police, based on intelligence. They also reported finding the beginnings of another tunnel and arresting four suspects.

Despite the inter-agency conflict, residents of Kfar Saba expressed concern. Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Sa'ar told Channel 12 News that residents have been worried since the discovery, calling it a serious incident that should concern everyone. He added that the municipality had warned about potential threats, including infiltrations and tunnels, even before the October 7th attacks.