Hamas Investigates Senior Official's Capture by Israeli Forces

Hamas has established an expanded investigative committee to understand how Israeli forces infiltrated an area and abducted Moin Al-Arabid, the organization's head of general security. The inquiry aims to determine the security lapse that allowed the operation to succeed.

As part of the investigation, video footage from residents and security cameras, along with eyewitness testimonies from the scene, are being collected. The abduction has reportedly caused significant embarrassment within Hamas's security apparatus.

According to a report in the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Arabid was surprised by the Israeli force as he left his home with an associate. He was wounded in the leg during an exchange of fire and attempted to escape but was pursued, wounded again, and eventually captured. The operation involved aircraft and drones providing cover and creating diversions, with reports of multiple missile launches and bomb drops in the area.

Al-Arabid held several sensitive security positions within Hamas, including dealing with collaborators with Israel and matters concerning armed factions and individuals suspected of acting against Hamas rule. The incident highlights a perceived vulnerability in Hamas's security, particularly in an area previously considered relatively protected.