Key facts
- Israeli forces captured Muin al-Arabid, identified as the head of Hamas's internal security apparatus in Gaza.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Shin Bet and military conducted the operation near al-Arabid's home.
- Israeli aircraft struck threats to the force during the withdrawal.
- Al-Arabid was captured wounded and transferred to Israel for questioning.
- Palestinian reports claim al-Arabid's wife was killed and four people died in Gaza City airstrikes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday that Israeli forces had captured Muin al-Arabid, whom Israeli authorities identified as the head of Hamas's internal security apparatus in Gaza. The operation, described as daring, was carried out by Israel's Shin Bet internal security agency and the military near al-Arabid's home in Gaza City.
According to Israeli officials, al-Arabid was seized wounded and transferred to Israel for further questioning. The Shin Bet and IDF stated that al-Arabid was involved in concealing Israeli hostages, hiding senior Hamas leaders, and working to rebuild the organization's capabilities. They also claimed he was working to restore Hamas governance in Gaza, obstruct disarmament efforts, and support attacks against Israeli troops and civilians.
During the operation, Israeli aircraft struck targets identified as threats to the force, with no Israeli personnel reported wounded. However, Palestinian reports disputed Israel's account, with a security source claiming al-Arabid was a lower-ranking officer and that his wife was killed when his home was struck. Palestinians also reported heavy Israeli airstrikes across Gaza City during the operation, with Gaza health officials stating that four people were killed, including three children.
Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the arrest, stating that Hamas leaders are being pursued and their infrastructure destroyed. He reiterated Israel's commitment to remaining in Gaza until it is demilitarized and Hamas is disarmed.