IDF spokesperson Real Admiral Daniel Hagari addressed the findings of the investigation into the events of October 7 in Kibbutz Be'eri, stating, "The IDF failed in its duty to protect Israeli civilians; we were absent for critical hours and ill-prepared for a Hamas onslaught. The public deserves answers."
Regarding the tragic incident at the residence of Pessi Cohen, where local residents fell victim to IDF shelling, Hagari explained, "It was an extreme siege scenario involving dozens of terrorists and innocent residents. The terrorists' intent was to abduct these civilians to Gaza, and when that failed, they resorted to violence and self-inflicted casualties. The Navy, Intelligence Corps, and IDF executed their duties with professionalism and meticulousness, exhausting all negotiation efforts. Only when negotiations faltered and the situation deteriorated did they act."
He emphasized, "Each IDF soldier is mandated to prioritize civilian protection and engage with the utmost caution. This initial investigation is only a precursor to a comprehensive process aimed at rebuilding trust between the IDF and the public. Decisions and repercussions will follow, alongside immediate operational enhancements. Our foremost commitment remains to safeguarding Israeli citizens, a pledge they rightly deserve."
Upon reviewing the findings of the October 7 incidents at Kibbutz Be'eri, Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Hertzi Halevi said, "The IDF failed its defense mission in the gravest manner and faltered in its obligation." Halevi acknowledged that despite commendable efforts by some units, "severe mistakes were made," detailing the lessons learned from the inquiry.
He commended the bravery of Kibbutz Be'eri residents and preparatory course members who valiantly resisted, preventing a complete takeover and saving countless lives, saying, "We are committed to learning from the valor of Kibbutz Be'eri residents ... who courageously defended under harrowing conditions when we faltered ... Their steadfastness averted greater catastrophe. We salute the bravery of commanders and troops who stood firm, their valor exemplary amidst adversity." He also lauded the settlement's emergency response team (TZEHI) for maintaining situational awareness and communication under fire.
He addressed the fundamental query of why security forces were delayed in reaching the settlements at the onset of the attacks. He explained that simultaneous assaults on multiple settlements and surrounding positions, compounded by blocked access routes, hindered prompt responses.
From noon onwards, external forces awaited orders as Hamas militants continued their assault on Kibbutz Be'eri residents unchecked. "This lapse is profoundly troubling and unacceptable," Halevi stated unequivocally. The delays stemmed from units arriving piecemeal and initially failing to grasp the severity of the crisis and the shortage of troops.
Further revelations indicated that some units outside the kibbutz served primarily as a defensive shell, while atrocities unfolded within. "We must enforce clear directives: in such crises, every unit must engage actively to prevent civilian casualties," Levi emphasized. By 1:30 PM, significant reinforcements from the IDF, Shin Bet, and police converged on the kibbutz, engaging in sustained combat until early Monday, neutralizing all terrorists.
According to the inquiry, in several instances, forces prioritized defending positions and evacuating wounded soldiers over civilians. Such decisions, attributed to incomplete situational awareness, underscored the challenges faced in chaotic environments.
"Protecting civilians must be our paramount directive," Halevi noted emphatically. This principle, he stressed, should be ingrained from basic training onward.
Additional insights highlighted the commendable initiative of numerous senior commanders, both active duty and reserves, who mobilized to the frontlines. Halevi affirmed the critical role of on-site leadership in decision-making and execution during crises. He also emphasized that this preliminary investigation illustrates systemic failures and the profound tragedy endured by southern residents defending their families. "The IDF was absent when they needed us most," he lamented.
Looking ahead, Levi pledged a comprehensive review, decision-making, and accountability process. Operational reforms will be swiftly implemented, he assured, alongside broader lessons learned. "We owe it to our citizens to conduct a thorough, introspective examination to fortify the IDF’s mission of safeguarding Israel," Levi concluded.
* Channel 13 contributed to this article.
