Senior security official: 'We wasted billions on Iran - while Hamas grew stronger in Gaza'
Almost three years after the October 7 massacre, the "October Council" organization has published a dramatic warning report. It highlights the return of a failed security concept, the rehabilitation of Hamas's capabilities, and a culture of silencing observers who report on emerging threats.
A new report titled "Strategic Warning: The 2026 Failure," published on Monday by the October Council, presents a worrying picture of Israel's security readiness.
The document, based on thousands of open sources and interviews with soldiers, observers, and security officials, states unequivocally: the writing is on the wall again.
The report presents "seven warning lights":
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The conception has changed form: Israel's policy still relies on the assumption that Hamas can be managed through arrangements, despite the lack of effective demilitarization. As of August 2026, Hamas continues to recruit and rehabilitate its governance mechanisms.
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Observers are warning again: Similar to the period before October 7, reports from observers regarding Hamas's behavior at the fence are not being translated into systemic warnings, and operational approvals are often delayed.
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Hamas is testing the defense line: Months of documented crossings, ground activity, and intelligence gathering suggest Hamas is systematically testing the IDF's response.
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Hamas was struck, but not dismantled: Three years of fighting have not ended Hamas's existence as a military force, with estimates citing tens of thousands of operatives.
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Manpower is eroded: The IDF is dealing with a heavy reserve burden, and plans to reduce forces in border communities are causing concern.
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The fear barrier: Soldiers and intelligence personnel report a culture where persistence is perceived as a nuisance, leading to a fear of speaking out about security gaps.
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Lack of a comprehensive investigation: No independent body has yet examined the entire chain of decision-making, from the political echelon to the security establishment.
'Netanyahu claimed we were exaggerating'
A former senior security official revealed: "Benjamin Netanyahu received over ten warnings, but claimed we were exaggerating." Another official noted that the focus on the Iranian arena wasted billions on "delusional projects" while Hamas grew stronger in Gaza.
During the report's presentation, the mother of fallen observer Roni Eshel read a letter from a mother of a current observer: "The thought that you see the danger but receive threats and silencing in return breaks me from the inside."
Representatives of bereaved families and Gaza envelope residents demanded an independent state commission of inquiry. Nirit, mother of Staff Sergeant Neta Baram, addressed the Prime Minister: "October 7 happened on your watch. Your policy failed. Your job is to protect IDF soldiers and Israeli citizens, not your chair."
