The Israeli military has acknowledged its failure to protect Kibbutz Be’eri during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, marking its first internal examination of security lapses during the incident.

Over 100 individuals perished in the assault on Be’eri, a community of roughly 1,000 residents, with 32 taken captive to Gaza, 11 of whom remain in captivity.

The military's investigation scrutinized the events of the day, the actions of security forces, and the overall management of the situation. Despite admitting their inability to safeguard civilians, the military praised the courage of Be’eri inhabitants, particularly the swift response team.

The inquiry identified several flaws in the military's handling of the situation, including unpreparedness for a Hamas infiltration, insufficient forces deployed, delayed awareness of the events, inadequate alert measures for Be’eri residents, and ineffective coordination during combat.

Although the probe did not fault tank fire directed at a house where hostages were being held, questions remain surrounding the cause of death for those inside, with indications pointing to the captors as responsible.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has called for a state investigation into the security failings of the October 7 attack, suggesting that both himself and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be included in the inquiry. Netanyahu has previously rejected calls for such an investigation.

The military's report was shared with Be’eri residents, many of whom are still displaced following the attack that led to Israel's conflict with Gaza.

Residents like Miri Gad Mesika emphasized the importance of understanding the events, preventing future occurrences, securing the release of hostages, and restoring a sense of safety.