Former IDF Chief Halevi: Oct. 7 Attack Was Preventable, No Internal Betrayal

Former IDF Chief of Staff Hertzi Halevi stated that the failures leading to the October 7, 2023, attack could have been prevented. He categorically denied any betrayal from within the security or military establishment that facilitated Hamas's assault on Gaza border communities. In his first public comments on the events, Halevi asserted, "Betrayal did not happen 100%," and called on Israeli political leadership to clearly state this.

Halevi explained that he understands the precise details of how the events of that day unfolded. He expressed disbelief that any of his colleagues, who served for decades and risked their lives, would choose to aid Hamas. He noted that practically assisting Hamas would have required a large network of collaborators, not just one individual, and that after three years, no one has been found to prove such cooperation.

Regarding calls for an official investigation, the former chief of staff emphasized Israel's obligation to thoroughly examine the October 7 failures and ask difficult questions. He believes this is a crucial part of the learning and recovery process. "October 7 was a failure that could have been prevented," he stated, stressing the need to confront shortcomings clearly to correct them and prevent recurrence.

Halevi also reflected on the attack's victims, mentioning the image of Shiri Bibas as embodying the scale of the failure for him. He acknowledged that the IDF was not present in time to help and rescue her.