Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) discovered a large tunnel capable of accommodating vehicles on the border between Israel and Egypt, officials announced on Sunday.
The tunnel, measuring 10 feet in height, was found last week on the so-called Philadelphi Route during an IDF operation to locate tunnels suspected of being used for weapons smuggling.
The IDF stated that their troops have already neutralized dozens of such tunnels in the area and will continue to uncover and destroy any others they may find.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following nearly 10 months of conflict in Gaza and the recent killings of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas’ top political leader in Iran. Iran and its allies have accused Israel of these killings and threatened retribution.
stated at a Cabinet meeting on Sunday that Israel is already engaged in a “multi-front war” with Iran and its proxies and is prepared for any contingency.
The United States has urged Israel to seize the opportunity for a ceasefire in an effort to prevent a wider regional conflict.
The Pentagon announced late Friday that the U.S. military will deploy a fighter jet squadron to the Middle East and maintain an aircraft carrier in the region.
The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon encouraged citizens wishing to leave the country to “book any ticket available,” noting that several airlines have either delayed or canceled flights.