IDF Inquiry Reveals Failures In Protecting Be'eri Kibbutz

IDF handout image shows Israeli soldiers take position in the Gaza Strip

An internal investigation conducted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) into the events that transpired at the kibbutz of Be’eri on October 7 has shed light on critical failures in protecting the residents of the community. The inquiry found that the IDF was ill-prepared for the extensive infiltration scenario orchestrated by Hamas militants on that fateful day.

Located in southern Israel, Be’eri suffered devastating losses during the attacks, with 101 residents, including children, losing their lives and 30 individuals being abducted. The IDF investigation highlighted that the military had trained for isolated and specific infiltrations, resulting in a lack of additional reserve forces in the area to respond effectively to the multi-pronged assault on Be’eri.

The report emphasized that there was a significant delay in establishing a clear situational assessment of the events unfolding at the kibbutz, leading to a lack of command and control, coordination, and order among the security forces present. Security officials also failed to provide timely warnings to the residents about the terrorist infiltration.

101 residents, including children, lost their lives in the attack.

IDF ill-prepared for extensive Hamas infiltration at Be’eri kibbutz.

Delay in establishing situational assessment led to lack of command and control.

However, the inquiry acknowledged acts of heroism and courage displayed by the fighting forces, commanders, and security personnel during the combat at Be’eri. The bravery of the kibbutz residents and the civilian rapid response team was instrumental in stabilizing the defensive line and preventing the attack from spreading further.

Despite operational errors and force deployment mistakes, the report commended the valor of the security forces who engaged the terrorists, resulting in the neutralization of approximately 100 militants out of the 340 who infiltrated the kibbutz. Tragically, 31 security personnel lost their lives in the line of duty.

The turning point in the defense of Be’eri came when a senior officer took charge of coordinating the forces, leading to the regaining of operational control over the kibbutz. The inquiry underscored the magnitude of the failure to protect the residents and the need for improved preparedness for such extensive infiltration scenarios in the future.