Israeli Intelligence Admits Failures in Preventing October 7 Hamas Attack

Shin Bet acknowledges critical errors and points to political leadership's role in enabling Hamas' preparations.

Shin Bet, Israel's domestic intelligence agency, has admitted to significant failures in preventing the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that left over 1,200 dead and more than 250 taken hostage.
The agency's report highlights mismanagement of intelligence on Hamas' plans and an overreliance on border security infrastructure and military readiness.
Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar took personal responsibility for the failures, stating, 'We are failed,' but has not resigned from his position.
The report criticizes a 'policy of calm' that allowed Hamas to strengthen militarily, including the flow of Qatari funds approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.
Netanyahu has faced calls for a state inquiry into the events but has resisted, while his allies have deflected blame onto Shin Bet leadership.