Israeli Intelligence: Underestimations and Failures Revealed

The New York Times' reporting on Israeli intelligence has been criticized for misrepresenting the country's military structure and its ability to respond to threats. The article argues that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) primarily consists of reserve units, which require advance warning to mobilize effectively. The author contends that the recent surprise attack by Hamas was not due to intelligence failure but rather the inherent challenges of mobilizing reserves in time. The reserve system has been crucial to Israel's military strength, allowing its citizens to work and raise families while still being ready to fight. While occasional failures occur, the alternative of constant mobilization would be far worse.