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IDF Probe: Hamas Used Years of Open-Source Intelligence to Learn Secret Merkava Shutdown

The findings attribute the tank neutralizations to social-media lapses corroborated by documents seized in Gaza tunnels.

Overview

  • Reporter Doron Kadosh said on IDF Radio that militants disabled Merkava Mark 4 tanks near the Gaza border by activating a crew-only button.
  • An IDF investigation concluded the capability was built over years through systematic analysis of soldier-posted photos and videos.
  • Documents uncovered in early 2024 inside the tunnel complex known as the “Pentagon” detailed how the group learned the tank’s systems.
  • Investigators say a dedicated Nukhba force trained on full‑size models and an advanced simulator, and the disabled tanks could not participate in the fighting.
  • Recovered materials indicated knowledge of base gate codes, critical tank details and barrier weak points, much of it enabled by poor social‑media discipline.