Hamas Plotted for Two Years Before Launching Its Bloody Incursion
A Group Leader Highlights the Scheme's Extremely Secretive Nature
Overt Operator
October 16, 2023
Last week, media reports highlighted the comments made in a exclusive interview with Russia Today by senior Hamas official Ali Baraka. Baraka disclosed that Hamas had been meticulously planning the attack on southern Israel for the past two years.
Baraka attributed the timing of the plot to President Joe Biden's assumption of office and the subsequent withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
Hamas' Secretive Preparations
According to Baraka, Hamas undertook a range of preparations to ensure the success of their attack. The group established local factories to manufacture weapons and munitions, including rockets with varying ranges, mortars and their shells, B-7 and B-10 guns and their shells, as well as Kalashnikov rifles and bullets. Baraka even claimed that Hamas possessed a Russian license to produce Kalashnikov bullets within Gaza.
To maintain secrecy, Hamas intentionally concealed the attack plan from many of its own leaders, projecting an image of prioritizing governance and the well-being of Palestinians in Gaza. Baraka revealed that only a select few individuals were aware of the attack and its timing, highlighting the group's commitment to preserving operational security.
Allied Support
Baraka divulged that Hamas received significant support from Iran and other allied groups, including Hezbollah, as well as the Arab and Islamic people. This assistance played a crucial role in facilitating Hamas' preparations, underscoring the group's extensive network of support.
Discovery of an Attack Manual
During the aftermath of the attack, responders discovered a manual in a Toyota pickup truck, providing insights into the meticulous planning that had taken place. The manual, dating back to October 2022, outlined detailed plans for breaching the border fence, anticipated Israeli defenses, as well as strategies for capturing soldiers, residents, and hostages for negotiation purposes.
Unforeseen Challenges
Despite their meticulous planning, a diplomatic source informed Al-Monitor that the attack did not unfold exactly as Hamas had hoped. While the group aimed to inflict casualties on Israeli soldiers and civilians, the outcome fell short of their expectations.
The revelations made by the senior Hamas official Ali Baraka shed light on the extensive planning undertaken by the group in preparation for the attack on southern Israel.
With a two-year timeline, local weapon manufacturing capabilities, and support from Iran, Hezbollah, and other allies, Hamas sought to carry out a devastating assault on Israeli soil. The discovery of an attack manual further highlights the group's precision and attention to detail.