Netanyahu's Office Releases Timeline of October 7th Actions

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a detailed hour-by-hour account of his actions on the morning of the October 7th Hamas attack, aiming to counter what it called "erroneous information." The publication follows a report by Kan suggesting the Prime Minister did not request to speak with the chief of staff before a 9:45 AM situation assessment.

According to the timeline, Netanyahu was first informed of the attack from Gaza at 6:29 AM. By 6:44 AM, he reportedly questioned why intelligence had not predicted the offensive and asked about a massive reservist mobilization and eliminating Hamas leaders.

Netanyahu departed his residence for the military headquarters, the Kirya in Tel Aviv, at 7:30 AM. During the drive, he spoke with the Defense Minister, who indicated that a clear picture of the situation was not yet available. Netanyahu then requested a situation assessment under his leadership. His office states he arrived at the Kirya around 8:00 AM, though Shin Bet records place his arrival at 8:22 AM.

A meeting between the Defense Minister, chief of staff, and Shin Bet director to prepare for the Prime Minister's assessment occurred between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM. Netanyahu also received intelligence updates during this period. The first situation assessment involving Netanyahu and the chief of staff began at 9:55 AM, over three and a half hours after the attack started. Attendees included the Defense Minister, heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, the national security advisor, and the head of IDF operations.

During this meeting, Netanyahu reportedly ordered the border sealed to prevent hostage transfers and further infiltrations. He also rejected a partial reservist mobilization in favor of a general one and ordered war preparations, including on the northern front. A smaller security consultation with the Defense Minister and chief of staff followed.