Watan-An Israeli military investigation published on Thursday concluded that Hamas launched its October 7, 2023, attack in three waves, with more than 5,000 people crossing from Gaza into Israeli border areas.
The report summary stated that the first wave included over 2,000 members of Hamas’ elite unit who infiltrated under the cover of heavy fire. The second wave consisted of 2,000 more armed fighters, while the third involved hundreds of militants accompanied by thousands of civilians. In total, approximately 5,000 militants infiltrated Israel during the attack.
An Israeli military official acknowledged that the army had been “overconfident” and misjudged Hamas’ capabilities before the attack.
“The events of October 7 were a complete failure,” the official told reporters, admitting that the military “failed in its mission to protect Israeli civilians.” He added, “Many civilians were killed that day, asking themselves or even out loud—where was the Israeli army?”
The investigation concluded that one of the key misconceptions was the belief that Hamas was more focused on governing Gaza than on fighting Israel.
These findings could increase pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to launch a broader, highly demanded investigation into the political decisions leading up to the attack.
Many Israelis believe that the failures of October 7, 2023, go beyond the military, blaming Netanyahu for his ineffective deterrence and containment policies in the years preceding the attack.
Last month, Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi announced his resignation, effective March 6, citing the military’s failure under his leadership to handle the attack.
Netanyahu has not taken responsibility, stating that he will only address difficult questions after the war. Despite public pressure, including from the families of approximately 1,200 people killed in the attack and the 251 hostages taken to Gaza, he has resisted calls for a formal inquiry.
The military’s findings align with previous reports on the attack.
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