IDF Captures Hamas Security Chief in Gaza Operation

An Israeli special forces operation in Gaza City on Tuesday resulted in the capture of Muein al-Arbid, identified as Hamas's head of internal security in the Gaza Strip. Al-Arbid was reportedly wounded during an exchange of fire with Israeli troops in the western part of the city and was subsequently evacuated to a hospital in Israel. Palestinian reports indicated that at least eight people were killed in the Israeli strikes that accompanied the operation, which involved intense Israeli air activity to cover the special forces' withdrawal after they were discovered.

The Israeli military confirmed that it had attacked several targets in Gaza to neutralize threats to its forces, stating that no Israeli soldiers were injured. Defense Minister Israel Katz, visiting the Nativ Ha'asara community near the Gaza border, declared that Hamas's senior terrorist was apprehended and reiterated Israel's policy of actively pursuing and eliminating Hamas operatives and their infrastructure. He described the establishment of a strong security zone in Gaza, noting that approximately 70% of the territory is now a barren area controlled by the IDF, devoid of residents, tunnels, and homes.

Katz asserted that the IDF will remain in Gaza until the territory is demilitarized, Hamas is disarmed, and all terror tunnels are destroyed. He added that even after these objectives are met, the IDF will maintain defensive lines in Gaza to ensure the security of western Negev communities. He warned that any attempt to bypass the security zone via aerial launches would be met with a severe response, equating the threat from balloons, kites, and drones, with or without explosives, to a direct attack on Israeli children.

Katz outlined a policy of forceful retaliation for any launches from Gaza, including the neutralization of those responsible and the evacuation of entire neighborhoods from which attacks originate to dismantle terror infrastructure. He emphasized that Israel's response, not the enemy's launches, would be the true test, and that response would be harsh. He concluded by stating Israel's commitment to security at any cost, with the entire price to be borne by the enemy.

Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli artillery fire was reported east of the Daraj Tuffah neighborhood in northeastern Gaza City. This followed a report from Palestinian media on Monday of three deaths and several injuries from an Israeli strike on a jeep in the Tel al-Hawa neighborhood in southwestern Gaza City. Last week, reports emerged that Israel feared Hamas was attempting to acquire advanced propeller drones through Egypt, similar to those used by Hezbollah in Lebanon that caused casualties and damage on the northern border. Acquiring such drones would constitute a violation of the agreement governing the Gaza Strip.