Concerns about a potential Hezbollah terror tunnel on the outskirts of Shlomi in northern Israel were alleviated, as investigations revealed that the suspected tunnel was actually an ancient cistern, according to a report by Israel's Channel 12 on Thursday.
Residents of Shlomi experienced a wave of panic after a routine work operation near one of the security fences uncovered an underground cavity that raised immediate suspicions.
Footage of the suspected "tunnel," recorded by one of the workers, quickly circulated through community text-groups, triggering significant anxiety, especially among families who had recently returned to the area after more than two years of confrontations with Hezbollah.
A resident shared their thoughts with Channel 12, saying, "When I see a hole in the ground right next to the fence, especially after everything we've been through, my first thought is that it’s a terror tunnel."
Other residents expressed the challenges they have faced in returning to the town in recent months, following prolonged evacuations. They conveyed that the fear of a potential threat, without immediate clarification, was terrifying.
No security threat, just history.
Channel 12 reported that after an investigation, the IDF and the Shlomi Local Council responded to public concerns. They clarified that what was discovered was neither a tunnel nor a hidden entrance and did not pose any security threat. Instead, it was an ancient water well that was accidentally uncovered during construction work, similar to many others that have been found in the region over the years.
An IDF spokesperson confirmed the report, stating, "Earlier today, IDF engineering forces were dispatched to the Shlomi area to examine a pit discovered by civilians. Following their assessment, it was definitively identified as a water well or a cistern. The IDF addresses all claims with utmost seriousness and continues to maintain constant contact with residents."
Shlomi Council Head, Gabi Naaman, reassured residents that there was no danger. "We have sent residents a clear notification through the security officer. Shlomi has a rich history. In 1948, around five thousand Arab residents lived here, and whenever development work is conducted, ancient wells and caves are invariably found," he said.
He emphasized that IDF personnel were quick to inspect the site and that he was present at the investigation: “We investigated thoroughly. This is simply a water well, like hundreds of others identified in this area over the decades. Everything is secure."
Despite these reassurances, many in the settlement acknowledge that the video has reignited fears from recent conflicts. Residents told Channel 12 that they have been trying to get back to a sense of normal, but felt they events like this kept them in emergency mode.
"When you see a hole in the ground next to the fence, you instinctively think of Hezbollah tunnels. This kind of anxiety doesn’t fade easily," another resident added.
Naaman called on residents to stop spreading rumors and to rely on verified information, saying it was regrettable that the tunnel story had gained traction in the community and caused such stress.
“There is no threat, and the security apparatus is in constant communication with us," Naaman reaffirmed.
The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has remained fragile since it was established a little over a year ago.
Over the past year, Israel has hit Hezbollah targets hundreds of times, raising concerns that if Hezbollah does not disarm, a war between Israel and Lebanon could resume in 2026.
Seth J. Frantzman contributed to this report.