Sister of Hamas’s Haniyeh Arrested on Terrorism-Related Charges

By Yoni Weiss

Israeli authorities have arrested the sister of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, on charges related to terrorism. The arrest took place in Tel Sheva, a Bedouin village close to Be’er Sheva, as announced by the Shin Bet and the Israel Police on Monday.

While the official announcement did not reveal her identity, Palestinian media identified her as Zebah Abdel Salem Haniyeh, a 57-year-old who holds Israeli citizenship.

The Shin Bet alleges that she engaged in contact with Hamas members and encouraged and facilitated terrorist activities within Israel, among other accusations.

Authorities reported that during a search of her residence, they discovered documents, digital media, telephones, and other materials that they believe connect her to severe security violations against Israel.

She is expected to appear before a magistrate’s court in Be’er Sheva for a hearing regarding the extension of her detention.

Ismail Haniyeh, who resides in Qatar, has three sisters, all of whom are Israeli citizens living in Tel Sheva.