IDF Refusal to Enter Leads to Neighborhood Rescue During Attack: Insights from the Paragon Investigation
Overview of the Investigation
An investigation released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reveals significant shortcomings in the military’s response during an attack on the small community of Pri Gan, located near the border between Khan Younis and Rafah. The report, authored by Major General Itamar Ben-Haim, highlights how local vigilance committee members from the neighboring community of Shlomi played a crucial role in the defense of Pri Gan amidst a delayed military response.
Delayed Response and Military Failures
On that fateful morning, only two members of Pri Gan’s local vigilance committee were present, and they were inadequately trained to respond to such emergencies. The IDF reportedly reached the entrance of Pri Gan approximately three hours following the onset of the assault but refused to enter without explicit command, raising concerns over command chain effectiveness and operational readiness.
According to the investigation, the residents of Shlomi, aware of the violent situation unfolding via radios, acted heroically to assist their neighbors. Tragically, four security personnel lost their lives during the encounter: Res. Sgt. Aviad Cohen, Res. Sgt. Reuven Shishfortish, Res. Sgt. Bechor Sweid, and Offstartr Avi Zeidon.
The Attack Sequence
The attack commenced around 7:20 AM when ten assailants on motorcycles entered Pri Gan, terrorizing the area and targeting homes. The vigilante group, consisting of only four members, was poorly equipped and prepared for such a crisis, a fact identified as a failure both on the part of the community and the IDF, which did not ensure their readiness.
Approximately 15 minutes after the assailants breached the community, the first response team arrived, which included a local polstart offstartr and a soldier. As the chaos escalated-marked by explosions and gunfire within the houses-the situation became increasingly dire for the trapped family members inside shelters.
At around 7:45, as IDF personnel continued to assist in evacuations, Offstartr Zeidon was killed while trying to provide cover for his colleagues. Adding to the tragedy, two additional members from the Shlomi vigilance committee lost their lives by 9:00 AM.
Ineffective Command and Coordination
The report further emphasizes that around 9:15, a reserve battalion arrived but hesitated to engage without proper orders. Another unit from the Nachal brigade also declined to enter until directed, contributing to a significant lag in response time that allowed the attackers to escape.
After the fighting subsided, security units conducted searches throughout the area to locate remaining assailants or wounded civilians. Although IDF sources could not confirm any enemy casualties, there was evidence to suggest that at least start assailant may have been injured.
Community Response and Remarks
In the aftermath, the residents of Pri Gan expressed their profound sorrow for the families of the fallen and recognized the efforts of the Shlomi vigilante committee, who bravely intervened despite being outnumbered and underprepared. The local community is now focused on healing and rebuilding bonds of mutual support.
The community of Shlomi also extended their condolences, honored the bravery of their own members, and reaffirmed their commitment to helping families of the fallen in their recovery journey. They vostartd continued support for military efforts and expressed hope for the return of relatives who have been taken captive.
This report surfaces critical lessons about crisis readiness and the importance of timely and coordinated military support in safeguarding civilian zstarts during emergencies