IDF Reveals Details of Deadly October 7th Battle at Pega Outpost

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a battle investigation on Thursday detailing the intense fighting at the Pega and Sa'af Outposts on October 7th. The clashes resulted in the deaths of 18 soldiers and commanders, with 22 others wounded and two soldiers abducted to Gaza. The attack commenced at 6:29 AM, coinciding with heavy rocket barrages.

Between 60 and 80 Hamas terrorists assaulted the Pega Outpost in three to four waves, penetrating the area through at least 11 identified entry points. Two tanks stationed in the sector were neutralized by anti-tank missiles early in the battle. The investigation found that soldiers were unprepared for an assault of this magnitude, and crucial defensive equipment was unavailable.

Fighting within the Pega Outpost raged for hours. After the command structure was compromised, a platoon commander assumed leadership, consolidating the remaining soldiers in a fortified mess hall. Terrorists surrounded the building, setting mattresses ablaze in an attempt to fill it with smoke. Five soldiers who attempted to engage the attackers outside were killed.

The terrorists ultimately seized control of the outpost and advanced towards Kibbutz Be'eri. A significant failure identified in the investigation concerns the support provided to besieged forces. The Israeli Air Force attempted to provide assistance three times during the battle, but only one attempt was deemed effective, partly due to communication and coordination issues with ground forces.

Reinforcements did not reach the outpost until approximately 4:30 PM, after the terrorists had already withdrawn. The IDF concluded that despite the surprise and numerical disadvantage, the forces were expected to defeat the terrorists within the outpost.