Hamas spied On Israel for seven years through a meticulous hacking operation, a recent report revealed. The Palestinian group utilised security camera footage and other means to gather intelligence, which eventually culminated in the coordinated assault on October 7, 2023. This attack resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,200 lives, predominantly civilians, and the abduction of 251 individuals. In retaliation, Israel’s actions in Gaza have led to over 45,000 Palestinian deaths, with the displacement of nearly the entire population, according to the Gaza health ministry.
Seven Years Of Spying Revealed
Israeli media sources, such as Channel 12, disclosed documents seized from Hamas operatives. These papers detail the group’s surveillance operations, which targeted kibbutzim and other strategic locations for years before the attack. Hamas operatives reportedly obtained IP addresses and serial numbers for security cameras in the areas they attacked, including Israeli kindergartens and clinics. They also acquired personal contact information for security guards stationed at the borders.
Footage shows that Hamas meticulously monitored these areas, enabling a precise execution of their assault. Shalom Ben Hanan, a former official from the Israeli spy agency Shen Bet, described the intelligence gathered as “very accurate and detailed,” showcasing a methodical and prolonged preparation for the attack.
Weaknesses Exploited Through Cyber Hacking
Reports indicate that civilians inadvertently aided Hamas by sharing access codes for security devices via platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. This allowed hackers to breach security systems easily. Hamas also intercepted emails of Israeli security officials, gaining insights into weak points along the border. One email from last year revealed requests for enhanced security fencing, which may have informed their strategies.
In addition to border vulnerabilities, the group reportedly tracked movements of high-ranking Israeli officials, including Sdot Negev Regional Council’s Chief Tamir Idan and others. Former Eshkol Regional Council head Gadi Yarkoni was marked as a target but avoided harm due to outdated information about his residence.
Criticism Of Israeli Defense Forces
Yarkoni expressed frustration with the Israeli Defense Forces, stating that he was given no warning about being a potential target. “I’d be surprised if the Israeli military didn’t know about it,” he remarked, highlighting gaps in intelligence sharing and preparedness.
The report sheds light on the sophistication of Hamas’s operations and the security lapses that allowed them to gather critical intelligence over such an extended period. This revelation underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and vigilance to prevent similar incidents in the future.