The IDF confirmed Tuesday evening that the head of Hamas's Internal Security apparatus in the Gaza Strip was arrested in a joint IDF and Shin Bet operation.
Shin Bet special forces raided a building in Gaza City and captured the Hamas official, identified as Al-Arabid. Israeli Air Force aircraft carried out targeted strikes against military targets in the area to secure the operation, the IDF said. No Israeli forces were injured.
According to security information, Al-Arabid had recently worked to strengthen Hamas's control in northern Gaza and was involved in planning and carrying out attacks against IDF soldiers operating near the Yellow Line.
The operation, conducted under Southern Command, lasted several hours and concluded with Al-Arabid's capture while wounded. He was evacuated to Israel for further security questioning.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the arrest was carried out in a "daring operation" near Al-Arabid's home.
Netanyahu described him as one of Hamas's most senior officials, saying he was responsible for concealing and moving hostages, hiding senior Hamas members, and rebuilding the terrorist organization's capabilities.
He added that Al-Arabid had recently been involved in efforts to restore Hamas's control in Gaza, attempts to deceive Israel regarding the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, and terrorist activity against Israeli forces and civilians.
Hamas's Internal Security apparatus is responsible for countering alleged espionage and identifying Palestinians suspected of assisting or collaborating with Israel.