"Now we are fighting": Israeli counterintelligence chief takes responsibility for Hamas' surprise invasion, but does not resign

Israeli counter-intelligence chief Ronen Bar took responsibility for the lack of warning of danger and the unexpected invasion of the south of the country by Hamas on October 7. However, he noted that the struggle is ongoing, so the investigation will be conducted later.

This was reported by the Israeli English-language online newspaper The Times of Israel. Ronen Bar addressed the Shin Bet (Israel's counterintelligence service - Ed.).

"Despite the series of actions we took, on Saturday, October 7, unfortunately, we were unable to create a sufficient warning that would have prevented the attack," said Ronen Bar.

He said that as the head of the intelligence service, he takes responsibility for this. However, the investigation into the situation will be carried out later, as the fighting is still ongoing.

"As the head of the organization, the responsibility for this lies with me. There will be time for the investigation. Now we are fighting," said Ronen Bar.

The newspaper notes that a few hours before the Hamas attack on October 7, the Defense Ministry detected unusual movement in the Gaza Strip. A nighttime phone call between senior officials took place, but the signs were largely ignored.

Nevertheless, according to Israeli media reports, Bar went to the counterintelligence headquarters and ordered a small group to deploy to the Gaza border, anticipating a minor attack.

According to Shin Bet, at least 10 intelligence officers were killed in the October 7 attacks.

"We are fighting a war, not a round. You win a round with a picture of victory and silence. The war ends with a decisive victory and a change in the situation. There is no limit, no time limit. Until the very end," Bar added.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced preparations for a "long" war. The IDF understands that the price of this confrontation will be extremely high, but Jerusalem will celebrate victory, Gallant said during a meeting with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken.

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