IDF Expands Scope of Probe of Hamas Incursion on Oct. 7

By Yoni Weiss

The IDF on Thursday provided further details regarding its internal investigation into the failure to prevent Hamas’s Oct. 7 incursion into southern Israel. The inquiry will not only address real-time decisions but also delve into events dating back to the 2014 Gaza operation.

Initial findings of the investigation are anticipated to be disclosed in June. Initially, the IDF had announced that the probe would look back to March 2018. However, it has now been revealed that the examination will extend even further, encompassing the Gaza operation of July-August 2014.

The investigation’s depth is significant as it may have implications for Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, who oversaw much of the period under review, as well as former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot and his successor Aviv Kochavi. Additionally, the current IDF leadership, including IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar, and IDF intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Aharon Haliva, will be under scrutiny.

The broader timeline under examination raises questions about past policies, including Hamas’s control of Gaza since 2007 and events dating back to the Second Intifada. These considerations could have electoral implications, especially for Defense Minister Benny Gantz, who has garnered considerable support for his handling of recent events.

The investigation aims to provide comprehensive insights into operational and intelligence failures surrounding the Oct. 7 incident. It will scrutinize the IDF’s border management strategies, its understanding of Hamas, operational preparedness, and decision-making processes leading up to the incursion.

Furthermore, the inquiry will assess defense protocols and operations beyond Oct .7, including the management of reserves, logistical challenges, and civilian evacuation procedures. Various IDF divisions, including those responsible for specific battles, will undergo scrutiny as part of this comprehensive review.

Additionally, the Navy, Home Front Command, Operations Command, and Communications and Technology Command will be subject to investigation.