Israel Captures Top Hamas Security Chief in Gaza Raid

The Israeli military and Shin Bet security agency announced the capture of Moin Al-A'rbed, identified as Hamas's head of internal security for the entire Gaza Strip. The joint statement detailed that Shin Bet special forces raided a structure in Gaza City, apprehending Al-A'rbed near his home. During the operation, the Israeli Air Force conducted targeted strikes on military sites in the vicinity to neutralize threats, with no Israeli casualties reported.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the "daring operation" by the Shin Bet and IDF, stating that Al-A'rbed is one of Hamas's most senior leaders. Netanyahu asserted that Al-A'rbed was responsible for concealing and transporting hostages, hiding Hamas officials, and rebuilding the terror organization's capabilities. He also accused Al-A'rbed of attempting to restore Hamas's governance in Gaza, deceiving on the issue of disarming the Strip, and aiding in terror attacks against Israelis.

In response, Hamas issued a statement condemning the Israeli operation, which it claimed resulted in casualties. The movement called on mediators and guarantors to exert maximum pressure on Israel to cease its actions and respect the ceasefire. A Hamas official told Al-Araby TV that the abduction was a clear and dangerous violation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

Defense Minister Israel Katz, visiting Nativ Ha'asara in the Gaza envelope, reiterated Israel's policy of pursuing Hamas operatives and destroying their infrastructure. He described a strong, unprecedented security zone established in Gaza, with approximately 70% of the Strip cleared of residents, tunnels, and homes, asserting IDF control over the area. Katz vowed that Israel would not leave Gaza until it is disarmed and Hamas is dismantled, with the IDF maintaining defensive lines afterward.

Separately, air raid sirens sounded in Aqaba, Jordan, attributed to Iranian missile launches. Residents in Eilat reported seeing intercepted projectiles and hearing explosions. The US Central Command confirmed American strikes against Revolutionary Guard Corps targets near the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent attempts by Iran to attack commercial shipping and US soldiers in the region. Iranian state media reported explosions in Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, and Chabahar. The IDF also reported conducting artillery and air strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, destroying terror infrastructure located within civilian areas, and confirmed the elimination of a Hamas military wing commander in Jabalia who was planning attacks against Israel.