Netanyahu Rejected Pre-October 7 Shin Bet Strike Proposals in Gaza
Three weeks before October 7, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Shin Bet proposals for targeted strikes in Gaza, favoring economic arrangements with Hamas instead.
Three weeks before the October 7 massacre, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposal from the head of the Shin Bet to conduct targeted aerial assassinations against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip. The exchange took place during a Rosh Hashanah toast with senior Shin Bet officials on September 13, 2023, amid mounting border riots.
The Security Debate
During the meeting, Netanyahu inquired about assassination options. According to a senior official present, the former head of the Shin Bet replied that operatives could be targeted in Gaza. Netanyahu reportedly responded: "From the air in Gaza? Only if there is a terrible attack. Otherwise, something small is preferable."
Economic Concessions to Hamas
Simultaneously, under Netanyahu's directives, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) met with Qatari envoy Mohammed Al-Emadi. The talks aimed to advance economic benefits for Hamas in exchange for quiet along the border. While rejecting proactive eliminations, the Prime Minister pursued a policy of appeasement and financial arrangements with the terrorist organization.
"From the air in Gaza? Only if there is a terrible attack. Otherwise, something small is preferable."
Legal Fallout
These revelations follow a multi-million shekel lawsuit filed by the former Shin Bet chief against Netanyahu. The lawsuit details repeated warnings regarding a multi-front escalation prior to October 7, though the specific September 13 conversation was not initially included in the legal filing. Netanyahu's office declined to comment on the report.
