The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is imposing stricter restrictions on soldiers’ social media activity after an internal investigation revealed that Hamas used online posts to gather intelligence on the Nahal Oz base before its deadly October 7 attack.
During the assault, 53 soldiers were killed, and 10 others were taken captive. The probe found that photos shared by soldiers on their first and last days at the base enabled Hamas to map out key locations, including surveillance cameras, generators, safe rooms, and patrol movements. Captured Palestinian fighters later admitted they had built training models of Nahal Oz using this information.
To prevent similar intelligence leaks, the IDF is now banning photography inside military facilities, enforcing strict penalties for violations, and extending security classifications to a broader range of roles. Soldiers and officers will also be prohibited from using social media platforms like Facebook while serving in sensitive positions. Additionally, public filming of civilian-attended military ceremonies and events will be restricted.
The investigation also found that Nahal Oz soldiers received no warning before the attack. Security protocols did not account for rocket fire or the protection of unarmed personnel, and ground assault drills had not been conducted for years.
Further army probes revealed that Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad deployed around 5,000 fighters in coordinated attacks on Israeli communities and military positions along the Gaza border. Intelligence about the looming assault was misinterpreted, and the army was more focused on threats from Iran and Hezbollah. The reports, made public on Thursday, addressed operational failures but did not examine political decisions.
Growing calls for an independent inquiry into the October 7 failures have intensified. Such a commission, typically led by a senior Supreme Court justice, would have broader authority to summon witnesses and collect evidence. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has opposed the move, saying on Monday he would not support a “politically biased” investigation. His remarks sparked clashes between bereaved families and Knesset security personnel.
On October 7, Hamas attacks near the Gaza border resulted in at least 1,180 deaths and the abduction of 252 Israelis and foreign nationals. Of the 59 remaining hostages, 36 are believed to have died in captivity.