The Art of Deception and the Failure of Intelligence
The failure of top-tier intelligence agencies like the CIA, NSA, 5 Eyes Alliance, MI6, and Mossad to anticipate the devastating assault by Hamas on Israeli civilians on October 7th is deeply concerning. Historically, rocket exchanges between factions were not uncommon. However, the acts of extreme violence, including the killing of innocent concert-goers simply reveling in music, is an absolute tragedy.
These agencies, renowned for their intelligence-gathering prowess, were caught off guard. One could argue that their over-reliance on electronic surveillance overshadowed the need for human intelligence (HUMINT). Reports indicate that while Mossad monitored Hamas' regular activities, they missed the covert transportation and conversion of explosive materials into rockets in subterranean chambers. Hamas members carrying handheld weapons was deemed a typical sight, presumably for internal and external security purposes.
Additionally, Hamas political leaders engaged Israel in peace talks, casting an illusion of a stable path forward. In a show of goodwill, Israel even granted work permits for nearly 40,000 to 50,000 Arabs from Gaza to work in neighboring Israeli towns. The prevailing sentiment was that economic prosperity would further the peace process.
Unfortunately, this wasn't the reality. Behind this façade, a few skilled and organized individuals covertly gathered intelligence on Israeli defenses daily. Underground tunnels became assembly lines for rockets. Arms were stored in conspicuous places to avert suspicion. Top Hamas military leaders communicated discreetly, if at all, ensuring Israeli intelligence remained in the dark.
The timing for their assault was meticulously planned, capitalizing on internal political divides in Israel. External factors, such as the US's focus on Ukraine, also played a part. The chosen day coincided with a Jewish holiday and a large music concert. This meant both Israeli military personnel and civilians were at ease, their guards lowered. The operation commenced with a barrage of rockets, bulldozers breaking through security walls, and Hamas militants infiltrating homes, concerts, and military establishments. Their merciless rampage culminated in taking numerous hostages from the concert and military facilities.
The absence of electronic communication meant leading intelligence agencies couldn't detect or predict this attack. This operation, rooted in deception and fueled by relentless propaganda, was executed with chilling precision.
