Netanyahu's Office Releases Oct. 7 Schedule Amid 'Misleading Reports'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released his schedule for the morning of October 7, responding to what it termed "misleading reports." According to the timeline, Netanyahu received his first update on the Gaza Strip's attack at 6:29 AM via the military secretary. A follow-up briefing at 6:44 AM saw Netanyahu question why intelligence reports he received did not mention the attack and requested consideration of a large-scale reserve mobilization and the elimination of Hamas leadership.

Netanyahu departed for the Kirya military headquarters around 7:30 AM, receiving an update from the Defense Minister during his commute who stated the situation was unclear. Netanyahu then instructed that a situation assessment be convened under his leadership. While his office states he arrived at the Kirya around 8:00 AM, Shin Bet records indicate his arrival was at 8:22 AM.

At 8:40 AM, the Defense Minister convened a meeting with the IDF Chief of Staff and the head of the Shin Bet to formulate a situation assessment. Concurrently, between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM, Netanyahu received ongoing intelligence updates and field reports. At 9:47 AM, the Prime Minister's secretary received the situation assessment document prepared by the Shin Bet chief at 5:15 AM.

At 9:55 AM, Netanyahu chaired a situation assessment meeting in the Kirya's bunker with the Defense Minister, IDF Chief of Staff, head of the Shin Bet, National Security Advisor, and head of Military Intelligence. During this meeting, Netanyahu ordered a complete closure of the border to prevent hostage transfers to Gaza and further infiltrantions. He also rejected the IDF's recommendation for partial reserve mobilization, ordering a full mobilization, and prepared for a potential northern front.

Following the meeting, Netanyahu held a limited security consultation with the Defense Minister and the IDF Chief of Staff.