Israel Dismissed Recent Hamas Threat as Intelligence Failures Emerge
Israel recently underestimated Hamas’ intentions for a full-scale war, leading to intelligence failures resulting in the Saturday assault. According to Haaretz, Israeli security services believed Hamas wanted to avoid a major conflict, unaware of their plans for combined rocket attacks and raids in the south. The assessment also indicated Hamas’ desire to preserve Gaza’s economic incentives. Some speculate that Israel’s focus on the West Bank due to previous tensions might have contributed to these intelligence lapses.
Key Developments This Morning
- The United States is sending warships to the eastern Mediterranean.
- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese supports Israel’s right to defend itself.
- A senior Hamas official claims the group is holding more than 100 captives.
- Paramedics have recovered over 260 bodies from an attacked music festival.
- Several airlines have suspended services to Tel Aviv.
Israeli Tourists Shot Dead in Egypt
Two Israeli tourists and their Egyptian guide were fatally shot in Alexandria, Egypt. A police officer, alleged to be the shooter, is in custody. This marks a rare attack on Israelis in Egypt.
Demonstrators Clash in New York and Across American Cities
Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine supporters clashed during rallies in various American cities. In New York City, skirmishes occurred near the United Nations compound, while protests took place outside Israeli consulates in Atlanta and Chicago. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi led a Jewish community gathering in San Francisco.
Holocaust Survivor Among Hostages: US Secretary of State
Hamas militants have taken a wheelchair-bound Holocaust survivor and other captives into Gaza, as stated by United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken. World leaders, including Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, have called for the release of these hostages.
More Airlines Suspend Tel Aviv Flights
Delta Air Lines and American Airlines have joined United Airlines in suspending flights to Tel Aviv due to the recent Hamas attack. Air France also awaits improved conditions before resuming services.
Over 250 Bodies Recovered from Israeli Music Festival
Israeli rescue service Zaka reports that paramedics have retrieved at least 260 bodies from a music festival attacked by Hamas militants over the weekend. The final count is expected to be higher, as multiple paramedic teams are involved.
Concerns for Gaza Citizens Amid Israeli Vow of Vengeance
Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti expresses concerns that Israeli leaders, by vowing “mighty vengeance” against Hamas, may endanger civilians in the Gaza Strip. Barghouti condemns any violations of human rights but emphasizes the disproportionate number of Palestinian victims in the conflict.
American Carrier Suspends Tel Aviv Flights
United Airlines suspends flights to Tel Aviv in response to the Hamas attack, citing safety as a priority. Flights will remain suspended until conditions improve.
Former Mossad Boss Surprised by Gaza Border Breach
Former Mossad chief Efraim Halevy expresses surprise at Hamas’ capabilities and the breach of Israeli defenses along the Gaza Strip. He emphasizes the need for a strong Israeli response but cautions against excessive measures.
