Israel military leaders had received detailed information about Hamas’ plans for an attack on October 7, but disregarded it due to skepticism, as per a report from the New York Times. The report reveals that senior Israeli authorities had been aware of the attack a year prior to its occurrence.
Although the documents did not specify the exact date, they outlined Hamas’ strategy to breach the border and carry out the assault. However, Israeli officials dismissed the plan as overly ambitious. Unfortunately, the attack turned out to be the deadliest day in the 75-year-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
On October 7, Hamas launched an offensive, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and the capture of over 200 hostages. In response, Israel imposed a siege on Gaza, home to a population of 2.3 million, and conducted airstrikes and ground operations. According to Gaza health officials, who are trusted by the United Nations, approximately 11,500 Palestinians, including a significant number of children, have been confirmed dead, with more still trapped under debris.
The New York Times report reveals that Israeli intelligence had prepared a 40-page document codenamed “Jericho Wall” outlining the details of Hamas’ attack plans. The document explicitly described how Hamas intended to overrun military bases, target critical infrastructure, and take hostages.
Hamas executed the attack with alarming precision, initiating it by launching a barrage of rockets at Israel. They then disabled the cameras at the Israel-Gaza border using drones. Subsequently, their operatives infiltrated Southern Israeli towns using motorcycles, paragliders, and boats, exactly as detailed in the “Jericho Wall” document.
Israel declared its determination to eradicate Hamas following the attack and only temporarily ceased its raids in Gaza after a truce mediated by Qatar. Under the terms of the truce, both sides agreed to release some hostages in exchange for a ceasefire. This temporary pause in hostilities has also allowed limited humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, which has been severely devastated by the Israeli assault.
It is important to note that Israel views the truce as a temporary measure to secure the release of hostages and intends to resume fighting in the future.
