IDF Contradicts Police on Tunnel Discovery Near Qalqilya

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued an unusual statement Thursday, refuting an earlier police announcement about the discovery of a tunnel near Qalqilya in the West Bank and criticizing the police's official report as "irresponsible." According to the IDF, while two deep shafts were found during a joint operation, subsequent investigation ruled out any connection to a tunnel and denied claims that one of the shafts was near the seam line separating Israel from the West Bank.

The police had announced Wednesday that a tunnel "in the stages of excavation," at least 25 meters deep, containing numerous weapons, and a second, earlier-stage tunnel were discovered near Qalqilya. They also reported the arrest of four suspects. Police later clarified the tunnel was 400 meters from Highway 6 and 200 meters from Highway 55, and did not cross into Israeli territory.

The IDF stated that its forces, along with Border Police and other units, operated in Qalqilya overnight following intelligence about weapons in the area. They found two approximately 12-meter-deep shafts containing an M16 rifle, a hunting rifle, a pistol, and ammunition, which were confiscated. The elite Yahalom unit examined the shafts. The IDF's statement explicitly stated, "Contrary to irresponsible official announcements, after investigating the shafts, the existence of a tunnel was ruled out, and proximity to the seam line was also ruled out."

While the IDF did not name the police, their statement clearly referred to the police's earlier report. The IDF also reported arresting four suspects in connection with terrorist activity, who are now under investigation. Two Israeli citizens had their detention extended, while two Palestinian suspects are expected to appear before a military court.

The police, however, are standing by their original report. West Bank Police Commander Superintendent Moshe Finchi stated, "Every word in yesterday's announcement was correct and accurate and based on facts." He added that the IDF's announcement "shortened the length of the tunnel" and questioned the military's capabilities versus police work, emphasizing the need for a single authority on the ground.

The initial police report had caused significant concern among residents and local officials in the nearby Sharon region, who feared a tunnel could reach their communities. Local leaders, while relieved the tunnel threat was dismissed by the IDF, highlighted the discrepancy in information and called for better coordination between security forces. Some residents expressed ongoing anxiety about security along the seam line, comparing the situation to the Gaza border area.