DAY 279 OF THE WAR: Drone Attack in the North, First Investigation on the Failure to Defend Kibbutz Be'eri, Gallant Calls For National Commission of Inquiry

Tel Aviv Diary, July 11, 2024

Late this morning, two sets of drones were launched from Lebanon at Israel. The first set targeted Eastern Galilee, near Kiryat Shmona, where all the drones were successfully intercepted. An hour later, Hezbollah dispatched a few more drones to Western Galilee. These were not intercepted, and subsequently, one drone landed at an army base, seriously injuring a soldier. Tonight, an anti-tank missile was fired at Shtula; it hit a building and set it on fire.

The morning began with high hopes that a deal to secure the release of hostages and a ceasefire was in the works. David Ignatius of The Washington Post, one of the most connected National Security reporters in Washington, DC, reported that an agreement had been reached stipulating that neither Israel nor Hamas would rule Gaza after the war. Instead, a force of 2,500 Palestinians, approved by Israel, would take charge. This development raised optimism for not only securing an initial agreement but also for reaching a subsequent one. Consequently, the Israeli stock market surged, and the Shekel strengthened. However, Finance Minister Smotrich expressed his disapproval of the agreement in an interview and threatened to topple the government if it were accepted.

This evening, at the graduation ceremony for officer cadets, Netanyahu reiterated his four conditions for a deal and expressed his commitment to the deal—but not to Hamas's demands. It is unclear whether this is another attempt by Netanyahu to undermine the agreement, something he has done several times before. However, the signs, so far, seem positive. The head of the Shin Bet is scheduled to head to Cairo tonight to continue the negotiations. Tonight, the White House announced that progress has been made in the talks.

GALLANT CALLS FOR A NATIONAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY

The graduation ceremony for the IDF cadets (officer training) took place an hour before the report on what transpired in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7th was released. At the ceremony, Defense Minister Gallant turned to Prime Minister Netanyahu and said there must be a National Commission of Inquiry to investigate his actions, the actions of the IDF Chief of Staff, and Netanyahu’s actions leading up to October 7th.

IDF REPORT ON THE OCTOBER 7 ASSAULT ON KIBBUTZ BE’ERI

The Army’s initial investigative report regarding one aspect of what happened on October 7th was released, specifically focusing on the incidents at Kibbutz Be'eri. Here is a summary:

Timeline

Start of the Attack and Movement of Terrorists:

06:30 to 06:45 on 7 October: Terrorists began moving from Gaza to Kibbutz Be'eri.

Start of the terrorist Ground Attack on the Kibbutz:

06:45 to 09:00 on 7 October: The first terrorists penetrated the kibbutz simultaneously from two directions. The fighting was initially carried out by the Kibbutz's emergency defense team and kibbutz residents.

Kibbutz Captured by the Enemy:

09:00 to 13:30 on 7 October: The Kibbutz's emergency defense team, along with Kibbutz residents, managed the combat, establishing a defensive line. The first IDF force that arrived sustained injuries, evacuated the wounded, exited the Kibbutz, and fought at the entrance. By the end of this stage, all the kidnappings by the terrorists from Be’eri were carried out. A senior commander was appointed to oversee the arriving forces and manage the ongoing fighting.

Enemy Containment Phase:

13:30 to 22:00 on 7 October: Significant Army forces, including the “Lightning” Division (99), arrived and established command and control. By 18:00, approximately 700 IDF soldiers and security forces were fighting in the area. Beginning in the afternoon hours, efforts to evacuate residents began.

Restoration of Operational Control:

22:00 to 05:00 on the night between 7 October and 8 October: Main evacuation of residents was carried out. Most of the Kibbutz area was scanned. Operational control over Be'eri was achieved by the Security Forces.

Completion Clearing of the Kibbutz:

05:00 to 15:00 on 8 October: A repeated scan of the Kibbutz was carried out. Combat continued in several confined areas.

Key Conclusions from the Be’eri Investigation

A. Preparedness:

The IDF was unprepared for the wide-scale infiltration that occurred on October 7th, involving multiple entry points and thousands of terrorists attacking numerous locations simultaneously. The existing reference scenario [regarding Hamas and Gaza] focused on individual and localized infiltrations, which was what the forces were trained and deployed to address. Consequently, there were no additional reserve forces in the area that could be dispatched to Kibbutz Be'eri. All IDF reinforcement forces were sent to the sector, and their deployment will be evaluated later in the general investigation. The issue of preparedness and the adequacy of the plans for this scenario is still under examination as part of a broader investigation into defense and intelligence strategies.

B. Forming the Situational Picture:

The IDF struggled to form a clear and coherent picture of the events in Kibbutz Be'eri until the afternoon of October 7th, despite the local emergency team (Tzechi) having an updated understanding of the situation in the morning. The investigation reveals that the Security Forces did not provide sufficient warning to Be'eri residents about the terrorist infiltration during the early hours of the attack.

C. The Beginning of the Fighting in the Kibbutz:

Until 1:30 PM, the fighting within Kibbutz Be'eri was managed by the emergency defense squads and residents. For the first seven hours, the residents defended themselves, preventing the enemy from expanding their attack to additional neighborhoods. The residents continued to fight even after IDF forces arrived, guiding them and fighting alongside them.

D. Command and Control:

Due to multiple focal points and difficulty in forming a clear situational picture, the early hours of the fighting were marked by a lack of command and control, insufficient coordination, and a general absence of order among the various forces and units. This led to several incidents where security forces gathered at the entrance to the kibbutz but did not immediately engage in combat. Reasons included forces waiting for evacuation missions, forces directed to leave the kibbutz, forces waiting for a commander, and support forces positioned outside the settlement.

This lack of order characterized many fighting points on October 7th and is being investigated as part of the larger general investigation. A senior commander was appointed to each major fighting focal point to deploy arriving forces optimally and in a coordinated manner, avoiding reliance on organic force deployment. The General Staff and Southern Command's decision to assign Brigadier General Barak Hiram to command the sector and later Be'eri significantly increased operational effectiveness against the enemy provided a response to residents and clarified the situational picture and proper command of the fighting forces. This decision marked the turning point that led to regaining control of the settlement. Despite operational errors, the investigation team noted acts of heroism and supreme courage by the fighting forces, commanders, and security forces in Be'eri, saving many residents.

E. Conduct of Forces Towards Civilians:

There were instances where IDF forces acted inappropriately towards civilians, particularly regarding the security of evacuated residents and the provision of their basic needs by the Security Forces. In some cases, a situation arose where forces fought to defend an outpost and to evacuate and treat wounded soldiers before doing so for civilians.

F. The Hostage Incident at the Home of Pesi Cohen (deceased):

The investigation found that during the hostage incident inside Pesi Cohen’s house, the forces operated under an orderly command and control chain, including command from a dedicated post of the Yamam, Shin Bet, and IDF, with real-time intelligence and aerial support. The commanders and forces involved made professional and responsible decisions, exhausting negotiation efforts. Tank fire towards the house was carried out professionally, in a joint decision by commanders from all organizations, to apply pressure on the terrorists and save the hostages.

After hearing gunfire and the terrorists' announcement of their intent to commit suicide and kill the hostages, the forces decided to storm the house, conducting combat actions under difficult conditions. The hostages showed great resourcefulness, making significant efforts to contact and guide the security forces. The investigation team presented the bereaved families with their assessment of the circumstances of each civilian's death in the building. The team determined that no civilians were injured by tank shell fire inside the building, except for a specific incident outside where two civilians were injured by shrapnel. Most hostages appear to have been murdered by the terrorists, and further examinations should be carried out. The senior commanders acted in coordination and professionally under difficult circumstances.

The IDF Chief of Staff accepted all of the conclusions and lessons from the investigation, determining that they should be integrated into defense and combat plans. He expressed appreciation to the investigation team for their serious, sharp, and professional work, which created a clear picture despite the challenges and complexities.

BE’ERI MEMBERS RESPOND TO IDF REPORT

The members of Kibbutz Be'eri have reacted strongly to the Army’s report, demanding the establishment of a national commission of inquiry. They call for a thorough, comprehensive investigation that scrutinizes the actions of all involved parties and delivers definitive answers. Such an inquiry is crucial for their healing process and recovery and for drawing operational conclusions to prevent such a devastating, unfathomable loss from ever recurring. The ultimate aim is to restore trust in the Security Forces and to ensure that life in Be'eri can resume with a renewed sense of security.

Kibbutz Be’eri members emphasize that the IDF’s shortcomings were glaringly obvious from the day of the attack on October 7th, and they did not require the results of an investigation to perceive this failure. The loss of 101 members, the destruction of the Kibbutz, and their displacement as refugees in their own country have profoundly affected them. They highlight the importance of the investigation to provide answers and express hope that the severe, significant conclusions will be implemented decisively.

Moreover, the Kibbutz members expressed dissatisfaction with some critical questions remaining unanswered, such as the delay of military forces entering the Kibbutz during the attack, the intelligence failure that allowed Hamas’s invasion, and the response to the breached border fence. They stress the varied responses among members to the report’s findings, particularly concerning the incident at Pesi Cohen’s home.

Kibbutz Be’eri members acknowledged the heroism of the security forces and volunteers who fought to save them and extend their gratitude. Be’eri members also stated their hearts go out to the bereaved families.

In conclusion, members of Kibbutz Be’eri demand immediate action concerning the hostages who have been abandoned in captivity for nine months. They urge the prompt return of all hostages and advocate for a deal to bring their community members home, stressing the urgency to prevent the need for another commission of inquiry in nine months.

ISRAEL’S “AIR FORCE ONE”

After spending close to NIS 1 Billion on preparing Israel’s Air Force One (named: “Kanaf Achad”), it turns out that the plane will only be able to take part of the Prime Minister's entourage on the flight to Washington. This limitation seems to have developed because, with a full load and all the additional electronics installed, “Kanaf Achad” cannot fly nonstop to D.C. It is difficult to believe nobody anticipated this scenario before they spent years retrofitting the aircraft that Netanyahu desperately wanted. “Kanaf Achad,” a used 767, which is over 20 years old, now requires some passengers bound for Washington with the Prime Minister to travel on commercial flights. In addition, El Al has been asked to have a plane set aside on standby in case the “Kanaf Achad” is unable to depart. In light of the limitations of “Kanaf Achad,” it’s unfortunate Netanyahu did not just cancel his trip, especially since it is very difficult to see how this US visit will benefit Israel.

TURMOIL IN ISRAELI MEDIA WORLD

Over the past month, there has been significant upheaval within the Israeli media world. Channel 13, known for its critical reporting of the government, has been my favorite station since returning to Israel almost 13 years ago. A few years ago, Prime Minister Netanyahu convinced a businessman close to him to acquire a controlling interest in the channel. Initially, the new owners refrained from interfering. However, last month, they appointed a close associate of the Likud as the new President of the news division. The employees filed a lawsuit, given that the news is partially publicly owned. Today, it was announced that the channel’s most popular daily prime time news program, hosted by Raviv Drucker—a journalist well-known for his critical views of the government and his investigative reporting on corruption—has been cancelled. This decision has sparked widespread outrage.

U.S. Central Command Update [July 10, 11th]

July 10th

U.S. Central Command forces successfully destroyed two Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV) over the Red Sea and one Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed surface vessel (USV) in the Red Sea.

July 11th

U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed five Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed surface vessels (USV) in the Red Sea. USCENTCOM forces also successfully destroyed two Houthi uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) over the Red Sea and one Houthi UAS in a Houthi controlled area of Yemen.

It was determined the UAVs and USV presented an imminent threat to U.S., coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region. These actions were taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure.

BUSINESS

Nagish

A startup founded by two Israelis in New York has raised $11 million to make the jobzmarket accessible to the deaf and hard of hearing. The startup, Nagish, completed the fundraising two months ago, led by the American fund Canaan Partners, and employs five workers in Israel out of a total of 18 employees - and is currently recruiting for additional positions.

Nagish’s app allows the deaf to have phone conversations without the need for an interpreter or a captioner. It connects to the existing phone and uses artificial intelligence (AI) for simultaneous translation of text to voice and speech to text.

The entrepreneurs Tomer Aharoni (32) and Alon Ezer (31)—veterans of technological units and graduates with degrees in computer science from Columbia University - began developing the technology as a side project while working full-time. It all started when Aharoni received an important voice message during a class, which he could not listen to at the time. ‘I told this to Alon (Ezer), and he said to me, “Imagine what the deaf do.” And I asked myself, “What do they actually do?”’ Aharoni, the company’s CEO, recounted.

Nagish Team

Cytactic

Cytactic reported the completion of an impressive seed round of $16 million. The round was led by Evolution Equity Partners, one of the leading venture capital funds in the cyber field. Cytactic says the funds will be used to continue developing the company’s product. Cytactic founded in 2022, today employs about 20 workers in Israel and the United States.

Cytactic’s platform is designed to help companies be prepared for cyber crises, if and when they occur, and manage them efficiently. The platform operates in a SaaS format and runs processes in the organization’s systems to ensure they are ready for a breach that could lead to a cyber crisis, such as by training employees and phases of restoring the company’s systems after a breach.

The platform integrates decision-making for crisis managers, dynamic management tools tailored to the organization’s roles and the market in which it operates, and risk-driven response engines. The platform also synchronizes all departments in the attack response process,” says Kozlovski. According to him, based on the platform, the organization can perform risk-based preparedness according to specific threat analysis for it and can practice and conduct simulations to assess overall readiness to minimize expected damage during a cyber event or crisis.

Buildots

Israeli construction technology startup Buildots announced it received a $15 million investment led by Intel Capital, with participation from OG Tech Partners and previous investors, bringing its total financing to $121 million. Buildots uses artificial intelligence (AI) software to help the construction sector overcome inefficiencies, prevent errors, and reduce delays and costs by up to 50%. CEO Roy Danon highlighted that Buildots integrates AI-powered progress tracking and advanced analytics into the construction industry, which has yet to fully embrace the digital age. Lisa Cohen, investment director at Intel Capital, emphasized that Intel aims to use AI to revolutionize construction process management and enhance efficiency in its large-scale projects.

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A PIECE OF HISTORY

The Hebron Massacre

On February 25, 1994, a horrific massacre took place at the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron. Baruch Goldstein, an American-born physician and follower of Rabbi Meir Kahane, entered the mosque during Ramadan prayers and opened fire on the 800 Muslim worshippers present. The attack resulted in 29 deaths and 125 injuries before Goldstein was killed by survivors of the attack. Goldstein’s objective was to derail ongoing peace talks.

The massacre coincided with the Jewish festival of Purim, which some believe may have influenced Goldstein's decision to act. He had listened to a reading of the Scroll of Esther the night before and had spoken about the need to emulate her behavior. The timing and symbolism of the attack, occurring during both Purim and Ramadan, added layers of religious and political significance to the tragedy.

Goldstein, dressed in his Army uniform and armed with an IMI Galil assault rifle, entered the mosque unchallenged by guards who assumed he was an officer. He positioned himself at the only exit and opened fire on the worshippers, many of whom were in a vulnerable position during prayer. The attack continued until Goldstein was struck with a fire extinguisher and beaten to death by the crowd.

Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was appalled by the killings and faced difficult decisions in its aftermath. Rabin, who had previously expressed strong criticism of the settler movement, considered various responses. He ultimately outlawed Kach, the party of Meir Kahane, and contemplated removing settlers from Hebron due to the security burden they posed.

The government debated whether to remove all settlers from Hebron or just those in the city center. While Rabin initially agreed to remove settlers from the city center, this action was never implemented. The Army opposed a complete removal of the settlers from Hebron, fearing potential violence. The massacre was a major blow to the peace process and resulted indirectly in a number of Hamas terror attacks as retribution.