An initial investigation by the IDF into the murder of six hostages by Hamas in Rafah last week indicates that Hamas lookouts, stationed outside a tunnel, observed IDF forces approaching the area. This prompted the terrorists to execute the hostages and flee, according to a report by Kan News on Tuesday evening.
Despite efforts to avoid areas where live hostages might be held, based on real-time intelligence, no such intelligence was available for this specific area at the time.
On Monday, Hamas continued its pattern of cruelty and deception. Initially, Hamas claimed the hostages were killed in an IDF airstrike, but spokesperson Abu Obaida later admitted to their execution. He accused Israel of bearing full responsibility for the deaths due to their refusal to engage in a prisoner exchange. Abu Obaida also hinted that Hamas might kill all hostages rather than allow them to be rescued, citing new instructions given to Hamas guards following the rescue of four hostages in the “Nuseirat incident” (Operation Arnon) in June.