Israeli army tightens social media rules after probe finds Hamas used posts for Oct 7 attack

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is imposing stricter restrictions on troopers’ social media exercise after an inner investigation revealed that Hamas used on-line posts to assemble intelligence on the Nahal Oz base earlier than its lethal October 7 attack.
During the assault, 53 troopers have been killed, and 10 others have been taken captive. The probe discovered that pictures shared by troopers on their first and final days on the base enabled Hamas to map out key areas, together with surveillance cameras, turbines, secure rooms, and patrol actions. Captured Palestinian fighters later admitted that they had constructed coaching fashions of Nahal Oz utilizing this data.
To stop related intelligence leaks, the IDF is now banning pictures inside navy services, imposing strict penalties for violations, and lengthening safety classifications to a broader vary of roles. Soldiers and officers may also be prohibited from utilizing social media platforms like Facebook whereas serving in delicate positions. Additionally, public filming of civilian-attended navy ceremonies and occasions shall be restricted.
The investigation additionally discovered that Nahal Oz troopers acquired no warning earlier than the attack. Security protocols didn’t account for rocket fireplace or the safety of unarmed personnel, and floor assault drills had not been performed for years.
Further army probes revealed that Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad deployed round 5,000 fighters in coordinated assaults on Israeli communities and navy positions alongside the Gaza border. Intelligence in regards to the looming assault was misinterpreted, and the army was extra targeted on threats from Iran and Hezbollah. The stories, made public on Thursday, addressed operational failures however didn’t study political selections.
Growing calls for an unbiased inquiry into the October 7 failures have intensified. Such a fee, sometimes led by a senior Supreme Court justice, would have broader authority to summon witnesses and accumulate proof. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has opposed the transfer, saying on Monday he wouldn’t help a “politically biased” investigation. His remarks sparked clashes between bereaved households and Knesset safety personnel.
On October 7, Hamas assaults close to the Gaza border resulted in not less than 1,180 deaths and the kidnapping of 252 Israelis and international nationals. Of the 59 remaining hostages, 36 are believed to have died in captivity.