The Lead
Israeli security forces have uncovered a tunnel dug from the Al-Eizariya area toward Israeli territory near the A-Za'im crossing, east of Jerusalem. The shaft, which reached a depth of approximately 25 meters, was discovered following a report from the Civil Administration. Two suspects, a Palestinian resident of Al-Eizariya and a resident of East Jerusalem, both in their 30s, were arrested after forensic DNA evidence tied them to the site.
The discovery occurred near the A-Za'im crossing, a critical security artery linking Jerusalem with Ma’ale Adumim and Judea and Samaria. Upon receiving the initial alert, officers from the Judea and Samaria District Police and Border Police (Magav) arrived at the scene to secure the tunnel. Inside the excavation, forces recovered digging tools, water bottles, gloves, and face masks, suggesting recent and organized activity.
Forensic Investigation and Arrests
Forensic investigators from the Judea and Samaria District collected evidence at the site, including DNA samples that allowed for the identification of the two suspects. The individuals were apprehended in a joint operation involving the Minorities Unit of the Judea and Samaria Central Unit (YAMAR), Border Police, and Jerusalem District Police. Authorities are currently investigating whether the tunnel was intended for the execution of terror attacks or for the large-scale smuggling of illegal infiltrators into Israeli territory.
Strategic Context
The A-Za'im crossing sits on a sensitive seam line where the capital meets the surrounding Judea and Samaria region. Security officials have previously warned that such subterranean infrastructure represents a significant threat to the integrity of the border and the safety of Jerusalem's residents. Superintendent Moshe (Muzi) Cohen, commander of the Judea and Samaria Central Unit, stated that the exposure of the tunnel demonstrates the operational and investigative capabilities of the district in neutralizing security threats before they can be realized. The investigation remains ongoing to determine the full scope of the network and any potential affiliations with established terror organizations.
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