IDF Probe Finds Systemic Failures in October 7 Battle at Pega Base

An in-depth operational investigation into the battle at the Pega base on October 7 has concluded that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) failed in its mission to defend the outpost, leading to the deaths of 18 soldiers and the capture of two others. The report, presented to the families of the fallen and the IDF Chief of Staff, was compiled over 10 months by Colonel Uri Ron, Lieutenant Colonel (res.) Tzachi Aruati, and their team, gathering testimonies, communications, and video evidence.

The investigation determined that the IDF's failure was systemic, stemming from a lack of preparedness for a large-scale surprise attack and inadequate defense of the area, which also allowed militants to infiltrate Kibbutz Be'eri. Tactically, the company combat team from the Golani Brigade's 13th Battalion was insufficiently equipped and unprepared, with defensive positions and base infrastructure lacking. The prevailing mindset, focused on border disturbances, meant that preparations and drills for a major enemy raid were not conducted.

The report details the timeline of the attack, beginning at 6:29 AM with heavy shelling. Hamas disabled surveillance equipment and force multipliers early on. Key commanders, including the base commander and the mortar platoon sergeant, were killed early in the fighting, severely impacting command and control. Many air force strikes were ineffective due to poor coordination with ground forces.

Despite the systemic failures, the investigation highlighted extraordinary acts of bravery, camaraderie, and combat initiative by junior soldiers and commanders who fought in extremely difficult conditions. The report emphasizes that based on the intelligence available that Saturday, the IDF forces should have been able to defeat the infiltrating militants, as their readiness did not match their defensive mission.

Rescue forces from the LOTAR unit and Golani officers only arrived between 4:20 PM and 4:50 PM to clear the base and evacuate casualties. A subsequent anti-tank missile strike on a rescue convoy in the evening resulted in the death of an additional soldier.