Israel says it arrested Hamas internal security chief in Gaza raid

On September 1, 2026, Israeli forces conducted a military operation in Gaza City, arresting Moueïn al-Arabid, the head of Hamas's internal security service, near his home. The raid included airstrikes and drone fire that killed at least four people, including three children, according to Palestinian rescuers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed al-Arabid was responsible for hiding hostages and senior Hamas figures, and for restoring the group's operational capabilities. Hamas's Interior Ministry said al-Arabid was wounded during the confrontation and that his wife was killed and several children injured. A Gaza security source disputed Netanyahu's claim, saying al-Arabid's role was to combat collaborators with Israel. The Israeli military and Shin Bet confirmed the arrest and said al-Arabid was transferred to Israel for interrogation. The operation occurred despite a ceasefire in effect since October 2025, and Israeli strikes have continued almost daily, causing over 1,300 deaths since the ceasefire began.