Former IDF General Tal Russo Reflects on State Collapse Three Years After Oct. 7

Three years after the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas, former Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. (res.) Tal Russo reflected on the unprecedented security and state failure. In an interview with 103FM, Russo stated that the military and state collapsed on that day, attributing the catastrophe to years of arrogance and erosion within leadership.

Breakdown of State Systems

Recalling the morning of the attack, Russo admitted he could not comprehend the scale of the disaster as it unfolded on television. "Only the heroism of citizens, police officers, soldiers, and volunteer organizations is what stopped it. There was no state, the IDF was not there," Russo said.

"For three years I have been frustrated and unable to fully digest this because so many things led to that moment. Did we learn anything? Part of it yes, but much of it no," he added.

The Need for a State Commission of Inquiry

Addressing the ongoing debate over accountability, Russo emphasized the urgent need to establish a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures comprehensively. He noted that while internal military probes are underway, an independent national inquiry is vital to prevent future disasters.

Russo also criticized the shifting policies toward Hamas over the years, recalling that during his tenure, the group was treated strictly as an enemy rather than a de facto partner. He warned that systemic arrogance among commanders and politicians remains a dangerous flaw.