Israeli Army Admits Intelligence Failures Before October 2023 Hamas Attack
An internal investigation reveals misjudgments in assessing Hamas' intentions, leaving Israel unprepared for the unprecedented assault.
- An Israeli military report acknowledges years of intelligence misinterpretation, failing to foresee Hamas' large-scale attack on October 7, 2023.
- The investigation found that military and intelligence personnel underestimated Hamas' capacity and intentions, despite warning signs like unusual activities prior to the assault.
- The surprise attack involved over 5,000 Hamas fighters crossing into Israel in multiple waves, overwhelming border defenses and causing significant casualties.
- Critics accuse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of blocking an independent inquiry into the attack and avoiding accountability for the failures.
- Meanwhile, negotiations continue in Cairo over extending the Gaza ceasefire, with Hamas handing over four Israeli hostage remains and Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners.