Residents in Kochav Yair-Tzur Yigal, a town in Israel's Sharon region, have reported mysterious shaking and drilling noises in their homes, prompting fears of possible tunnel excavations. The town, located near the West Bank's Green Line and close to Kalkilya, governed by the Palestinian Authority, raises concerns of potential security threats.

Baruch Ben Neria, a resident, described the sensation, stating, "I felt like there was an earthquake far off, like the bed I was lying on was moving and sailing." Worried about the proximity to Kalkilya and recent history with tunnels used by groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, residents fear infiltration.

One resident shared a video recording of the unsettling sounds on a local Facebook group, leading to increased awareness. Yuval Arad, head of the town's regional council, acknowledged the concerns and mentioned that an investigation is imminent. The Ephraim Brigade is expected to look into the matter, emphasizing the strategic threat of potential tunnel infiltration.

Similar worries have surfaced in the nearby community of Bat Hefer, where residents reported drilling noises. Matan Buchner, a local, challenged claims that the soil in the region was difficult to dig, pointing to historical evidence of cisterns and tunnels. Tests conducted in Bat Hefer did not reveal tunnel presence, but concerns persist.

In response to the reports, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated, "The security forces conducted scans…that did not produce findings at this time, and the issue is under continuous monitoring." Despite initial tests not indicating tunnel activity, further investigations by a military engineering unit and a soil testing team are anticipated in the coming days.

Residents remain on edge, drawing parallels with past instances where similar sounds preceded the discovery of tunnels. The IDF reassured that it is taking residents' reports seriously and maintaining continuous vigilance on the situation.