An investigation by the Israeli military has determined that Hamas was able to carry out the deadliest attack in Israeli history on 7 October 2023 because the much more powerful Israeli Army misjudged the militant group’s intentions and underestimated its capabilities.
The Israeli military has acknowledged underestimating Hamas, leading to the deadliest attack in Israeli history on October 7, 2023. This attack occurred during a major Jewish holiday. The investigation revealed that Hamas' intentions and capabilities were misjudged, with a belief that Hamas prioritized governance over conflict. Hamas utilized over 60 attack routes, and signs of the impending attack were overlooked. The assault disrupted military command, resulting in significant losses. Public pressure mounts for a broader inquiry into the political decisions preceding the attack, though Prime Minister Netanyahu has resisted this. Additionally, Hamas returned hostage bodies, and Israel released hundreds of detainees in exchange.