Israel's intel failed despite prior knowledge of Hamas' plan weeks before October 7 attack: Report

A new document claimed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and intelligence services had detailed knowledge of the unprecedented attack by the Hamas militants on October 7 last year. Israeli military apparently also knew about Hamas' plan to kidnap 250 people.

The Kan public broadcaster claimed on Monday (Jun 17) that a document compiled within the IDF's Gaza Division warned that Hamas was training for a large-scale invasion. The document was reportedly compiled less than three weeks before the October 7 attacks.

The document, titled "Detailed raid training from end to end," said that the Palestinian militants were aiming to take hundreds of hostages. "The expected number of hostages: 200-250 people", Kan said citing unnamed security sources.

The crucial report was circulated on September 19, but it was apparently ignored despite being shared with at least some senior intelligence officials in the military's Gaza Division and Southern Command.

Hamas launched the attack on October 7 which resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures. The militants also took 251 people hostage, 116 of whom remain in Gaza including 41 the army says are dead.In retaliation, Israel waged war on Gaza, vowing to eliminate the Palestine-based militant group.

The humanitarian situation continues to worsen in the Gaza Strip. Israel's military offensive has killed at least 37,347 people, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

The document revealedexercises and drills that Hamas'elite forces were carrying out for raids on Israeli towns and military posts. As per the document, they trained on how to hold soldiers and civilians hostage.

"At 11 a.m., several companies were observed gathering for prayer and lunch before the start of training. At noon, equipment and weapons are distributed to the fighters, after which a company headquarters drill takes place. At 2:00 p.m., the raid practice begins," part of the document states.

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Questions on Israel'sintelligence

Similar claims, linked to apparent intelligence failure, have been made in the past as well, but Israel has denied them.

Israeli politicians have rebuffed calls for a thorough investigation into intelligence failures surrounding the Hamas attack.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted any official probe should wait until after the war.

However, the Israeli military told the news agency AFP that it was "investigating the events" of October 7, with a probe being "actively carried out" and would later be made public.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)