The terrorist was reportedly taken from an area near Palestine Square in Gaza City. The IDF has declined to comment on the matter, according to Army Radio.
Israel kidnapped a member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror organization during covert operations to locate the remains of slain hostage St.-Sgt.-Maj. Ran Gvili in Hamas-controlled areas of the Gaza Strip, Saudi state-run outlet Asharq Al-Awsat reported on Sunday.
The terrorist was reportedly taken from an area near Palestine Square in Gaza City. The IDF has declined to comment on the matter, according to Army Radio.
The allegedly kidnapped terrorist was reportedly among those Israel identified to Cairo as being responsible for the October 7 abduction and subsequent holding of Gvili’s remains, according to the Saudi outlet.
Earlier this month, the PIJ claimed that it had handed over the final hostage in its possession.
Hamas and the PIJ “know where Gvili’s remains are located, and have the ability to find them. The problem is they are not motivated to do so,” a security source told Maariv earlier this month. “We believe they can put in more effort.”
Hamas terrorists walk with Red Cross vehicle to area within the Yellow Line, Gaza City, November 20, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/DAWOUD ABU ALKAS)
Hamas, Red Cross search for Gvili’s remains
Hamas and the International Committee of the Red Cross have conducted searches for Gvili’s remains in Zeitoun, pausing recently due to inclement weather conditions when Storm Byron hit.
“We are applying very strong and clear pressure. Until Gvili’s remains are returned, there will be no progress. Everyone knows we are in an interim situation,” a second security source previously told Maariv.
“This stage also has disadvantages for Hamas, as they will not receive anything that will allow the rehabilitation of the Gaza Strip. There will be no concrete, no concrete mixers, no discussion of a new Yellow Line, no opening of the Rafah Border Crossing – and more!” the source added.
James Genn and Anna Barsky contributed to this report.
