Israel’s Joint IDF-Shin Bet “Nili” Unit Targets October 7 Terrorists

For the first time, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency have confirmed the existence of a special joint unit, dubbed “Nili,” created to locate and kill every Palestinian terrorist involved in the October 7, 2023, invasion and massacre. Israeli officials say the unit was formed immediately after the attack and combines experienced intelligence personnel from both the standing army and the reserves.

Times of IsraelTimes of Israel

Officers interviewed by Channel 12 described how Nili compiled a spreadsheet of thousands of names and then embarked on a labor-intensive identification process. The unit employed facial-recognition software to analyze video and photographic material recorded by the attackers, supplemented by artificial-intelligence tools that “complete the picture.” Traditional intelligence sources—including field reports from IDF and Shin Bet agents and information obtained from detained Palestinians—were also integrated.

Israel acknowledges joint unit targeting Palestinians linked to October 7 attack

Israeli officials state that the list now includes roughly 5,000 individuals alleged to have taken part in the October 7 assault or to have assisted in holding hostages. Of those, about 2,800 have been confirmed killed—both during the initial onslaught (approximately 1,200) and in subsequent operations in the Gaza Strip. An additional 300 alleged perpetrators have been captured and are awaiting judgment by special military tribunals that have yet to be established.

Times of Israel

In a separate incident, Israeli troops apprehended a Hamas Nukhba fighter at the Kerem Shalom crossing while he was driving a truck to collect private-sector goods. The Shin Bet had previously approved his permit to transport humanitarian aid. Security sources say the individual was taken for questioning; neither the IDF nor the Shin Bet provided further comment.

The Jerusalem PostTimes of Israel

During a temporary ceasefire, Israel altered its policy for “targeted elimination” strikes. Approval now requires the consent of IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, whereas previously it could be granted by the Southern Command chief or division commanders. Since the change, no assassinations of October 7 terrorists have been reported. The last lethal Israeli strike in Gaza occurred on August 3, when a car in Gaza City’s Sheikh Ijlin neighborhood was hit, killing two people.

Times of IsraelTimes of Israel

Lt. Gen. Zamir, touring the Gaza Strip, asserted that the army will continue to “operate proactively” against Hamas and “systematically” hit the terror group, emphasizing that Israel will not allow a repeat of the October 7 threat.

Times of Israel

• Estimated participants in the October 7 attack: ~5,000 (Israeli officials)

Israel acknowledges joint unit targeting Palestinians linked to October 7 attack

• Confirmed killed: ~2,800 (including 1,200 on the day of the attack)

Times of Israel

• Captured and awaiting trial: ~300 (Israeli officials)

Times of Israel

• Last reported lethal strike in Gaza: August 3 (two fatalities)

Times of Israel

• “It could be the driver who drove a tractor [across the border], and it could be a Nukhba company commander who led the invasion,” — Lammed, lieutenant, IDF Southern Command

Times of Israel

• “We knew what time he went to the shop, we knew the path he took; this is the task of intelligence, to take every target of interest to us, and investigate him down to the smallest detail, to the level of when he goes to pray, and what he eats for breakfast,” — Lammed, lieutenant, IDF Southern Command

Times of Israel