September, Friday 20, 2024

Why did Israeli intelligence not prevent a significant Gaza attack?


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Israeli officials are expressing shock and confusion over the recent attack carried out by Palestinian gunmen. Despite the resources and intelligence agencies at Israel's disposal, they were unable to predict or prevent the attack. This has raised concerns about the efficacy of Israel's extensive and well-funded intelligence services in the Middle East. Israel typically has informants and agents within Palestinian militant groups, as well as in Lebanon, Syria, and other locations. In the past, Israel has successfully executed targeted assassinations, using tactics such as drone strikes and exploding mobile phones. Along the Gaza-Israel border, there are surveillance cameras, ground-motion sensors, and regular army patrols. The fortified fence was designed to prevent infiltrations like the one that occurred in this attack, yet Hamas militants managed to breach it. The level of organization and operational security required by Hamas to carry out such a coordinated attack is impressive. In light of this, the Israeli media is pressing military and political leaders for answers. Israeli officials have launched a major investigation, but they acknowledge that finding answers may take years. For now, Israel's immediate priorities are containing and suppressing the infiltration on its southern borders, rescuing captured citizens, and neutralizing rocket launch sites. However, the greatest concern is preventing an escalation of violence. Israel is wary of a potential response from other groups, such as Hezbollah, and fears the conflict spreading into the West Bank.