The Israeli army implemented the Hannibal Directive, authorizing the use of necessary force to prevent soldier captivity during Hamas-led attacks on October 7. This resulted in casualties, including civilians, as per an investigation by Haaretz. What is the history behind this directive? Formulated in 1986, after Israeli soldiers were captured by Hezbollah in Lebanon, it aims to prevent future abductions. The reasoning behind it is to safeguard soldiers from falling into enemy hands and eliminate strategic advantages of captives. Current conflicts have reignited public concern as captives taken by Hamas in Gaza are a focal point. Past abductions, like that of Gilad Shalit in 2006, show the significance of captive soldier negotiations. The directive's controversial name is debated among sources but serves as a strategic deterrent to enemies. Despite its revocation in 2016, recent events show its continued deployment. The Haaretz investigation uncovered the unreserved application of the Hannibal Protocol during clashes with Hamas, even at the risk of civilian lives. The chaos led to unclear distinctions between civilians and captured soldiers. Various historical instances depict the use of the directive, emphasizing the extreme measures employed to prevent soldier abductions at any cost. Israeli military's stance on the directive remains ambiguous, with debates on the interpretation and value of individual lives during abduction scenarios. The Israeli military has refrained from official comments on the directive's use, signaling ongoing internal investigations to assess the events of the past conflict.