Israeli Military Aware of Hamas Plan to Capture Two Settlements

Israeli Channel 12 reports that senior military officials and intelligence personnel were aware on the night of October 7, just before Hamas's incursion, of signals suggesting a planned takeover of settlements and the abduction of hostages.

In intelligence jargon, the "indicative signs" refer to specific, more tangible signals indicating an imminent and more active operation. Previously, the leadership received "weaker signals." An analysis conducted early Saturday morning with the Chief of Staff, the head of Shin Bet, the head of AMAN, and other senior officials concluded that clashes were possible on Saturday, "including an attempt by terrorists to kidnap hostages or an incursion and takeover attempt on one or two populated areas."

The Shin Bet had sent the "Tekila" group south to neutralize the infiltration of terrorists, but the Gaza division not only failed to elevate the level of combat readiness but also did not send forces to the border. Even ground units were not alerted, and tanks were not moved to positions. Soldiers on the front lines and at observation posts were not awakened, resulting in many being killed in their rooms. Self-defense units in the settlements also did not receive any alerts. All of this has cost Israel and its citizens dearly.