Hamas Details Covert Israeli Operation to Capture Gaza Security Chief

Hamas has revealed its version of the operation that led to the capture of Moin al-Arabid, identified as the head of Hamas's internal security in Gaza. According to Hamas sources speaking to the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, the Israeli operation involved a complex two-month preparation period and the use of tranquilizer-laced ammunition. Hamas claims Israeli agents posed as workers for an international humanitarian organization, offering to set up food kiosks in al-Arabid's neighborhood to gather intelligence on his movements.

The operation, which occurred on September 1, resulted in al-Arabid's wounded capture and transfer to Israel. His wife was reportedly killed, and two children were injured during the raid. Al-Arabid was responsible for Hamas's counterintelligence and intelligence activities.

Hamas sources allege that the capture plan also utilized Palestinian collaborators, including women who supplied local residents with vegetables. These individuals were reportedly tasked with gathering information on specific houses and people's movements in the area, including al-Arabid's. The majority of intelligence, Hamas claims, came from Palestinian informants working with Israel.

According to Hamas, the Israeli special forces unit was not permanently stationed in the area but made brief, intermittent visits for final intelligence gathering and operational planning. On the day of the operation, additional personnel, allegedly including Shin Bet agents, appeared in the area alongside those already working at the kiosks, with weapons reportedly hidden within the stalls.

Hamas claims al-Arabid was caught off guard as he left his home with a companion. He and his companions reportedly returned fire, as did his wife and sons, before Israeli forces allegedly used tranquilizer ammunition and a stun grenade to subdue and capture him. Al-Arabid was reportedly wounded and attempted to escape by crawling before his final capture. The Israeli military and Shin Bet confirmed the operation, stating it targeted the head of Hamas's internal security in Gaza to disrupt terrorist plans and eliminate threats to Israeli forces.