Lebanese Military Discovers Tunnel Near Beirut

Digging equipment is pictured next to a tunnel discovered by Lebanese authorities near Beirut on Oct. 18, 2026. — Lebanese Armed Forces
Photo: Lebanese Armed Forces via Al-monitor

The Lebanese military discovered a tunnel northeast of Beirut on 19 October 2026. Soldiers located the underground structure during a routine operation in the Metn region. Military officials secured the surrounding perimeter immediately following the discovery to begin an investigation into the tunnel's origin and purpose. Engineering units from the Lebanese Armed Forces are currently assessing the site to determine the length and depth of the passage. No additional information regarding the construction or contents of the tunnel has been released by authorities at this stage. Operations remain ongoing in the area as the military continues to survey the site for further evidence.

The Lebanese military uncovered a tunnel northeast of Beirut on October 19, 2026, marking a significant find for regional security forces. This discovery prompted an immediate response from the command structure, which prioritized the containment of the site to prevent unauthorized access or interference with the ongoing forensic examination. The strategic location of the tunnel, situated within the Metn region, necessitated a rapid mobilization of assets to ensure the safety of the local vicinity while the investigation proceeded.

Military Investigation and Deployment

Lebanese Armed Forces command dispatched specialized units to the Metn area to conduct a detailed investigation into the structural integrity and technical specifications of the tunnel. These engineering personnel arrived on the morning of 19 October 2026 to stabilize the site and clear debris from the entrance. Technical assessment teams reported that the tunnel measures 13 meters long, five meters high, and eight meters wide.

The Lebanese military deployed specialized units to the Metn area to investigate the tunnel, ensuring that the personnel on the ground possessed the technical expertise required for subterranean exploration. These units utilized specialized equipment to map the internal dimensions of the structure, providing the military command with a full report on the tunnel’s physical characteristics. The deployment was carried out under strict security protocols to maintain the integrity of the site.

Personnel conducting the site examination confirmed that no weapons or military equipment were found inside the tunnel. The search teams processed the entire internal space and found only excavation tools and basic construction materials.

Intelligence officers and field units executed an operation to track individuals linked to the site, leading Lebanese military forces to arrest one suspect in connection with the tunnel excavation. Lebanese military forces arrested one suspect in connection with the tunnel excavation, taking the individual into custody for further interrogation. Military police transported the individual to a secure facility for questioning regarding the origins of the project. Beatrice Farhat, a spokesperson for the military, confirmed that the investigation remains in an active phase as authorities attempt to determine if additional parties were involved in the activity. The military continues to restrict access to the perimeter while forensic teams examine the site for further evidence. Authorities remain committed to uncovering the full scope of the project and identifying all entities associated with the excavation effort.