IDF Rejects Police Claim of Tunnel Discovery Near Qalqilya
The IDF rejected a police report about a tunnel discovered near Qalqilya, stating that investigation of two shafts found no tunnel route or proximity to the security barrier.
The IDF issued an unusual statement on Thursday rejecting a police announcement from the previous night regarding the discovery of a tunnel near Qalqilya, harshly criticizing the official report. According to an IDF spokesperson, while two deep shafts were located during the operation, subsequent investigation ruled out any connection to a tunnel route, and dismissed the claim that one of them was situated near the security barrier.
Conflicting Reports on Qalqilya Discovery
On Wednesday night, police announced that a joint operation by the police and Border Police uncovered a "tunnel under construction" in Qalqilya at least 25 meters deep, containing numerous weapons. It was further reported that an additional tunnel in the initial stages of excavation was found, and four suspects were arrested.
However, Thursday's IDF statement presented a different picture. The military stated that forces from the IDF, Judea and Samaria Border Police, and the Judea and Samaria District, commanded by the Ephraim Brigade, operated overnight in Qalqilya following intelligence regarding weapons in the area.
Contrary to official and irresponsible statements published on the matter, following the investigation of the shafts, the existence of a tunnel route was ruled out, as was any proximity of the shaft to the security barrier.
Local Residents Express Concern
Before the IDF refuted the existence of a tunnel, the initial police report sparked deep concern among residents and local council heads in the Sharon region adjacent to Qalqilya.
Farmers and local students expressed alarm over the reports, emphasizing the close proximity of West Bank towns to central Israeli communities like Kfar Saba, Tsofarim, Nir Eliyahu, and Neve Yamin, raising fears about potential security threats.
