Israel Eliminates 4,000 Hamas Militants from October 7 Attack; Manhunt Continues

Approximately three years after the October 7th attacks, Israeli security forces have eliminated about 4,000 of the estimated 6,000 militants who infiltrated Israel from Gaza. This figure was revealed by the Head of Intelligence, Major General Shlomi Binder, during a meeting of the political-security cabinet. He stated that the military has cleared 95% of the tunnels between the "Yellow Line" and the Gaza border.

Despite these successes, approximately 2,000 militants remain active and are being actively pursued. The intelligence community, comprising the Intelligence Directorate and the Shin Bet, is engaged in a continuous, round-the-clock effort to locate these remaining operatives throughout the Gaza Strip. This effort involves cross-referencing intelligence, interrogating detainees, and employing advanced technological collection methods.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the commitment to pursuing all those involved in the massacre and holding hostages. He stated, "There are still missions before us. There will be no Hamas rule in Gaza. Anyone who held our hostages is living on borrowed time. Day by day, we are settling accounts with these vile murderers." He also addressed ongoing tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon and the threat from Iran.

In addition to the ongoing manhunt, the Shin Bet head, David Zinni, warned the cabinet of immediate operational threats. He presented intelligence indicating that Hamas is intensifying efforts to carry out a significant attack or a specific abduction operation, potentially timed around upcoming Israeli elections or shortly thereafter. The goal, according to the assessment, is to generate widespread awareness, disrupt Israel's political and security agenda, and influence the operational landscape.

The security establishment is preparing to thwart these attempts with heightened readiness across all fronts. The presentation of these figures to the cabinet occurred on the eve of Israel's state memorial day for the victims of the October 7th massacre, during which national ceremonies were held. At one ceremony, Yaakov Godo, father of a victim, confronted Prime Minister Netanyahu, expressing his anguish over the lack of protection on that day.