According to Israeli media and the Israel Police, Israeli security officers detained the sister of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tel Sheva on Monday morning on suspicion of having ties to Hamas and inciting and supporting violence.
The detained suspect is a close relative of a senior Hamas member, according to the police statement. According to media sources, Zebah Abdel Salem Haniyeh, 57, was the relative in question.
The operation, known as “Early Dawn,” involved multiple departments working together. The police, border police, IDF, and Israel Police airborne unit conducted an early-morning raid that resulted in Haniyeh’s arrest as the culmination of the collaborative operation between Shin Bet and the police.
Security personnel allegedly discovered documents, media, phones, and other evidence proving Haniyeh’s involvement in grave security violations during their raid on her home compound.
The police say that later on Monday, Haniyeh would appear before the Beersheba Magistrate’s Court to request an extension of her custody.
Superintendent Amir Cohen, the Southern District Commander, commented on the arrest operation and stressed that in the fight against terrorism, no effort would be spared and that all resources would be utilized to guarantee the safety and security of Israeli residents.
Later on Monday, it was announced by Israeli media that Haniyeh would be held until April 4.