Israeli Intelligence Failures Exposed Before October 7

TEL AVIV: A recent investigation has revealed serious intelligence failures before Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.

Intelligence Gaps

The Israeli military’s 19-page report found gaps in intelligence gathering and flawed assumptions about Hamas. The report cited “systemic failures” in the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) preparedness.

It stated that intelligence agencies failed to recognize Hamas’ shift from a pragmatic group to one planning an offensive. Despite having relevant data, Israeli officials misinterpreted Hamas’ intentions.

Warning Signs

Hamas had started planning a large-scale attack as early as 2016. Their goal was to breach Israel’s border, occupy territory, and cause mass casualties.

The report noted that intelligence officers dismissed warning signs, including Hamas’ training exercises and operational plans. Had these indicators been analyzed properly, the attack might have been prevented.

Strategic Deception

Hamas created a false perception of seeking calm while secretly increasing its military capabilities. By May 2023, it had decided to attack during a Jewish holiday to destabilize Israel.

The IDF was caught off guard by the attack’s intensity, and its Gaza Division was overwhelmed within hours. A breakdown in command and control followed.

Military Failures

The IDF struggled due to poor situational awareness, slow troop mobilization, and inadequate deployment of forces. Its preparedness was insufficient for the scale of the attack.

Military Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi acknowledged the failures and took responsibility. He announced plans to resign in March.

Official Response

Halevi admitted accountability in a televised speech, saying, “I was the commander on October 7, and I take full responsibility.”

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s chief of staff stated that Netanyahu had not yet received the investigation report.