Security Forces Uncover Tunnel Near al-Za'im Crossing, Two Suspects Arrested

Israeli security forces uncovered a tunnel near the al-Za'im crossing, east of Jerusalem, and arrested two suspects on suspicion of digging it for terror activity. The tunnel, found at a depth of about 25 meters, was first reported by the Civil Administration, which alerted the security forces.

Police and Border Police units that arrived at the scene found digging equipment, bottles of water, gloves, face masks and other items believed to have been used by the diggers. Forensic investigators collected evidence at the site, and DNA findings helped identify the suspects.

The two men arrested in the early morning raid are a Palestinian from al-Eizariya and a resident of East Jerusalem, both in their 30s. They were detained in a joint operation by Border Police forces in Judea and Samaria and Jerusalem District police, and taken for questioning.

Police are checking whether the tunnel was dug recently and intended not only for terror attacks but also for smuggling illegal residents into Israel. Chief Supt. Moshe Cohen, commander of the Judea and Samaria District’s central unit, said the discovery and arrests showed the district’s determination and operational and investigative capability to stop security threats before they materialize. He added that the alleged infrastructure was meant for terror activity and smuggling into the state, and said police would continue a zero-tolerance policy against attempts to harm Israeli security.