IDF Ordered Hannibal Directive on October 7, 2023 to Prevent Hamas Taking Soldiers Captive
July 07, 2024 Israeli Newspaper Haaretz By Yaniv Kubovich

Extract:
'There was crazy hysteria, and decisions started being made without verified information':
Documents and testimonies obtained by Haaretz reveal the Hannibal operational order, which directs the use of force to prevent soldiers being taken into captivity, was employed at three army facilities infiltrated by Hamas, potentially endangering civilians as well

Gaza Division operations and airstrikes in the first hours of October 7 were based on limited information.
The first long moments after the Hamas attack was launched were chaotic. Reports were coming in, with their significance not always clear. When their meaning was understood, it was realized that something horrific had taken place.