Weapons Cache and Suspected Terror Tunnel Uncovered Near Jerusalem

Israeli Border Police uncovered a major weapons cache hidden inside a deep water cistern in Kafr al-Jib, near Jerusalem, in what police described as a significant counterterrorism success.

The cache was discovered by Border Police officers from the Jerusalem Envelope unit following intelligence gathered during an ongoing investigation. Initial searches were blocked by the depth of the cistern and difficult conditions at the site, forcing authorities to bring in Fire and Rescue teams and a professional diver.

Over several nights, large amounts of water were pumped out as divers searched the bottom of the cistern. The operation ended overnight when forces found several sealed bags packed with weapons and explosives.

Firearms, Explosives, and Remote Detonation Gear Found

Among the seized items were six improvised Carlo submachine guns, magazines, 5.56 mm ammunition, two cell phones, a remote activation device, a pipe bomb, an explosive device, an explosive block, liquid explosives, weapon parts, optical sights, and gun oil.

The weapons were transferred to the Jerusalem Envelope Border Police investigations unit for further examination. Explosive items were safely destroyed by Border Police bomb disposal experts from Judea and Samaria.

Police said the discovery likely prevented a major security incident and marked an important achievement in the ongoing fight against terrorism around Jerusalem.

Suspected Tunnel Toward Israeli Territory

In a separate case, police arrested two suspects on Wednesday after a tunnel was discovered near the A-Zaim crossing in the Jerusalem area. The suspects include a Palestinian Authority Arab from al-Eizariya and an Arab Jerusalem resident.

The tunnel was reportedly dug from Judea and Samaria toward Israeli territory and reached a depth of about 25 meters. Police found excavation tools, water bottles, gloves, face masks, and other equipment at the site.

Forensic teams collected evidence, including DNA samples, which helped identify the suspects. Police are investigating whether the tunnel was recently dug for security offenses, terrorist activity, or smuggling illegal infiltrators into Israeli territory.