New revelations shed light on the extent of US involvement in intelligence gathering for Israel's recent operation in the Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza. Reports by Ynet and New York Times journalist Ronen Bergman reveal details of Israel's collaboration with the US and UK following the operation, which resulted in the deaths of 274 Palestinians and the rescue of four Israeli captives.
According to these reports, Israeli and US officials, both from military and intelligence sectors, established a fusion cell to share drone and satellite imagery, as well as communications monitoring, to locate the captives. The operation, known as Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, was initiated by Hamas on October 7, resulting in the capture of 253 Israeli soldiers and civilians.
Intense planning began once captive locations were identified, with US and UK drones joining Israeli surveillance efforts over Gaza. Initially believed to be held in tunnels, it was later discovered that captives were located in apartments across Gaza, complicating rescue efforts.
Despite improved intelligence, Israeli bombings devastated Gaza's infrastructure, displacing 80% of the population and reducing hiding places for captives. Israeli officials claim Hamas ordered guards to kill captives if Israeli forces approached, but Hamas denies this, emphasizing efforts to protect captives from Israeli airstrikes.
While Israeli and US leaders celebrated the rescue of Israeli captives, the operation's heavy toll on Palestinian lives raises questions about its overall impact on the conflict's dynamics.