Story perspectives

IDF Dismissed Warning of Hamas Attack Before October Strike

12/21/2025

Summary

Story summary

On October 6, 2023, Israel's intelligence flagged a potential Hamas attack, later dismissed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The tip came from a drone operation targeting Hamas guards in Gaza, involving Avera Mengistu, a hostage.
IDF records did not document the operation despite investigations into the October 7 attack.
A February probe showed the IDF had received intelligence about Hamas's large-scale plans for years but deemed them unrealistic.

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Story summary

On October 6, 2023, Israel's intelligence flagged a potential Hamas attack, later dismissed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The tip came from a drone operation targeting Hamas guards in Gaza, involving Avera Mengistu, a hostage.
IDF records did not document the operation despite investigations into the October 7 attack.
A February probe showed the IDF had received intelligence about Hamas's large-scale plans for years but deemed them unrealistic.