Hamas confirms killing of arms dealer Mohammed Zayed in Al-Yamun by Duvdevan, Shin Bet

The confirmation from Hamas-linked channels solidifies the identity of the individual killed during the high-stakes arrest operation west of Jenin. Mohammed Zayed, 29, had been a primary target for the IDF and Shin Bet due to his extensive involvement in the illegal arms trade. According to security officials, Zayed was not merely a local dealer but a strategic facilitator who provided the specific firearm used in a 2025 shooting attack at the Reihan crossing, which left two IDF soldiers seriously wounded.

Details of the Operation The joint operation on Wednesday evening involved undercover units from Duvdevan and Shin Bet personnel. Zayed had been evading capture for an extended period, frequently moving between various safe houses in Al-Yamun. During the raid, Zayed reportedly attempted to flee and lunged toward the soldiers, posing an immediate threat that led to his elimination on the scene. The military noted that Zayed was assessed to have constant access to weaponry, making the apprehension particularly high-risk. In addition to Zayed's elimination, several suspects accused of assisting him in his evasion were arrested during the four-hour mission.

Strategic Impact and Context The removal of Zayed is viewed as a significant blow to the arms procurement networks in northern Judea and Samaria. By targeting the 'enablers'—those who provide the hardware for attacks—the IDF and Shin Bet aim to degrade the operational capacity of terror cells before they can execute strikes. This operation is part of a broader, intensified campaign across the Menashe Brigade's sector to dismantle the supply chains that fuel the ongoing friction in the Jenin and Tulkarm areas. The Zioneer Intelligence Desk continues to monitor the security situation as forces maintain a high operational tempo in the region.