IDF and Police Clash Over Reported Tunnel Discovery in Qalqilya

A rare dispute erupted between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Police on Thursday following a counter-terrorism operation in Qalqilya, West Bank. The disagreement centered on the discovery of what the police initially reported as an unfinished underground tunnel. The police stated their forces found a subterranean structure not yet completed, at a depth of at least 25 meters, along with the beginning of another excavation. They also reported seizing a sniper rifle, an M16 rifle, ammunition, fertilizer bags, phones, and a DVR, arresting four suspects.

However, the IDF later announced that their examination of the site's shafts ruled out the existence of a tunnel and its proximity to the separation barrier. According to the military, two shafts approximately 12 meters deep were found, containing weapons including an M16 rifle, a hunting rifle, a pistol, and ammunition. The IDF emphasized that their findings did not indicate a tunnel, contrasting with the police's official statements.

This discrepancy led to public accusations between the two security agencies. A senior police source suggested the IDF was upset about not receiving credit for the tunnel's discovery, while the IDF reiterated that their investigation did not confirm a tunnel. Despite the conflicting reports, both sides agree that shafts and weapons were found at the location, and security forces are continuing their search for additional shafts and weapons in the area. The operation was initiated based on intelligence information.