Hamas Security Chief Captured in Gaza Operation

A photograph has emerged showing the moments of arrest of Muein al-Arabeed, identified as Hamas's head of general security, in a significant operation deep within Gaza City. The image contradicts Hamas's initial claims that al-Arabeed had not been captured and instead suggested an attempt to assassinate him had been thwarted. Al-Arabeed is described as one of Hamas's most senior and influential figures in Gaza, comparable to the head of Israel's Shin Bet, possessing intimate knowledge of the organization's operations and intelligence apparatus, including its role in torturing dissidents.

Reports from Gaza indicate that an armed militia operating in coordination with the IDF carried out the initial raid. This group reportedly entered Gaza City on motorcycles, attempting to abduct al-Arabeed, which led to an intense firefight. Following the operation, Hamas initially denied the capture, but later issued a statement calling on international bodies to condemn the action.

Hamas urged the U.S. administration and mediating countries to condemn what it termed "occupation crimes" and to enforce the terms of a ceasefire agreement. The organization also demanded that the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, take urgent steps to halt these alleged crimes against civilians and bring those responsible to justice in international courts.