Israeli special forces captured Muein al-Arabid, the head of Hamas's internal security apparatus in Gaza, in a raid in Gaza City on Tuesday. The operation was carried out by Shin Bet agents with support from the Israel Defense Forces.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the mission, calling it a bold operation that targeted one of Hamas's most senior leaders. Netanyahu stated that al-Arabid was responsible for hiding and transporting Israeli hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks, sheltering senior Hamas figures, and efforts to rebuild the terrorist group's military capabilities and governance in Gaza.

The raid occurred near al-Arabid's home. Israeli aircraft conducted strikes to neutralize threats to the ground forces during the hours-long operation. No Israeli personnel were injured, and al-Arabid was wounded before being taken into custody and transferred to Israel for questioning.

Hamas's internal security apparatus handles counter-espionage and identifies suspected collaborators with Israel. Israeli officials described the capture as a significant blow to the group's efforts to restore control and conduct attacks.

Earlier reports suggested possible involvement by local anti-Hamas militias, but official Israeli statements confirmed the lead role of Shin Bet special forces. The operation marks one of the deeper incursions into Gaza City since the ceasefire period.

Defense Minister Israel Katz highlighted the capture as part of Israel's ongoing policy of targeting Hamas leadership. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will continue to pursue all those involved in the October 7 massacre and Hamas's terror infrastructure.

The event follows persistent Israeli operations aimed at dismantling Hamas's remaining command structure and preventing its rearmament in the Gaza Strip.