Israel Captures Hamas Security Chief in Gaza Operation

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency confirmed Tuesday the capture of Muein Al-Arbid, identified as Hamas's head of internal security in Gaza, during a special operation in Gaza City. According to a joint statement, Shin Bet special forces raided a structure and apprehended Al-Arbid, who was responsible for consolidating Hamas's control in the northern Gaza Strip and planning terror attacks against IDF forces. The operation also involved Israeli Air Force strikes on military targets in the vicinity to neutralize threats, with no Israeli casualties reported. Al-Arbid has been transferred to Israel for further interrogation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the operation, calling Al-Arbid one of Hamas's most senior leaders. Netanyahu stated Al-Arbid was involved in concealing hostages, hiding Hamas officials, and rebuilding the terror group's capabilities. He was also reportedly working to restore Hamas's governance in Gaza, deceive on the issue of disarming the Strip, and facilitate terror actions against Israelis.

Palestinian reports from eyewitnesses indicated that an Israeli special force infiltrated western Gaza City, supported by intensive Israeli aircraft activity that conducted strikes in several areas. These actions were reportedly aimed at securing the force's withdrawal after its presence was discovered. Palestinian media reported at least eight fatalities resulting from these strikes.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant visited Moshav Netiv Ha'asara, near the Gaza border, stating that the capture of the senior Hamas official reflects Israel's policy of actively pursuing and neutralizing terrorists and destroying their infrastructure. He asserted that Israel has established a strong security zone in Gaza, with approximately 70% of the territory cleared of residents, tunnels, and homes, and that the IDF controls the area. Gallant reiterated Israel's commitment to remaining in Gaza until it is disarmed, Hamas is dismantled, and all terror tunnels are destroyed, with the IDF maintaining defensive lines afterward to secure Israeli communities. He warned that any attempt to bypass the security zone via aerial launches would be met with a severe response, equating the threat of balloons, kites, and drones, with or without explosives. Gallant emphasized that Israel's response to any launch from Gaza would be forceful, targeting those responsible and clearing entire neighborhoods from which attacks originate.