IDF Denies Police Claim of 25-Meter Tunnel Discovery in Qalqilya

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on September 24 refuted a police report claiming the discovery of a 25-meter tunnel in Qalqilya, stating that their overnight operation uncovered two underground shafts approximately 12 meters deep. The previous day, during a joint operation involving the IDF, Border Police (MAGAV), and the Judea and Samaria District Police, these two shafts were found near where an M16 rifle, a hunting rifle, a pistol, and ammunition were discovered. Four suspects were also apprehended during the operation, which was prompted by intelligence regarding illegal weapons storage in the area. The IDF clarified that a thorough inspection of the underground sites revealed no tunnel and confirmed the shafts were not located near the separation barrier. This statement followed the police's announcement of a tunnel discovery. The police had asserted that an unfinished underground structure was found during a counter-crime operation in Judea and Samaria. The IDF labeled the police report "irresponsible," emphasizing that only two vertical shafts, not a tunnel, were found. Security forces are continuing operations in the Qalqilya area to search for additional underground structures and weapons. The initial report of a tunnel had caused significant concern in the nearby city of Kfar Saba, with Mayor Rafi Saar telling Channel 12 that residents were understandably worried and that a tunnel discovery would be a serious event. A senior police official commented on the IDF's denial, suggesting the army was upset about not receiving credit for the tunnel discovery near the Sharon cities.