Documented Footage and Denials: Israel, Hamas, and the Battle Over the October 7 Narrative
Documented Footage and Denials: Israel has released a graphic video compilation intended to counter recent claims made by Hamas regarding the events of October 7, 2023, the day a cross-border assault from Gaza into southern Israel ignited the current Gaza war. The footage, circulated by the Israeli military, is presented as visual evidence that contradicts Hamas’ assertion that its fighters did not intentionally target civilians during the attack.
Israeli Military Response to Hamas Claims
In a public post on X, the Israel Defence Forces stated that Hamas had issued a 42-page document denying involvement in the murder of civilians, the killing of children, and acts of sexual violence. According to the Israeli military, the newly shared video shows a portion of what it describes as documented actions carried out during the October 7 assault. The IDF emphasized that the footage was not newly produced but had been released for public viewing more than two years earlier, arguing that it directly challenges Hamas’ current denials. Israeli officials described the material as factual documentation rather than unverified accusations.
Hamas Document and Its Core Assertions
https://x.com/AyOdeh/status/2005244683513913751?s=20
The Israeli response followed the publication of the Hamas report on December 24. The document rejects allegations that Hamas fighters deliberately attacked civilians, hospitals, or schools. It claims that combatants were given explicit instructions to avoid non-combatant targets and civilian infrastructure. The report was shared publicly by Ramy Abdu, head of the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, and quickly drew international attention across diplomatic, media, and human rights circles.
Calls for International Investigation
Hamas accused Israel of spreading misinformation about the October 7 attack and renewed its call for an independent international inquiry. The group urged the International Criminal Court or another neutral investigative body to examine civilian deaths and casualty figures linked to the assault. Hamas framed this demand as part of a broader effort to challenge what it described as a distorted narrative surrounding the outbreak of the conflict.
Conflicting Narratives on Civilian Casualties
At the center of the dispute lies a sharp disagreement over responsibility for civilian deaths. Hamas stated that killing civilians contradicts its religious beliefs, moral framework, and internal education. It further alleged that Israeli military actions during the assault, including strikes in southern Israel, contributed to the civilian death toll. Israeli authorities have firmly rejected this account, maintaining that responsibility rests with Hamas and allied armed groups that crossed into Israeli territory.
Israeli Evidence and Official Figures
Israel argues that the video footage documents killings, abductions, and acts of violence carried out by Hamas fighters, directly contradicting the group’s claims. According to Israeli officials, approximately 1,200 people were killed during the October 7 attack. In addition, 251 individuals were taken captive and transported to Gaza. The victims and hostages included citizens from at least 40 countries, among them the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, Thailand, Argentina, and Canada, along with nationals from several Asian, African, and European nations.
Captives, Truce Efforts, and Prisoner Exchanges
During a temporary ceasefire in November 2023, around 100 captives were released as part of a prisoner exchange involving Palestinian detainees held by Israel. Despite this exchange, dozens of captives remain unaccounted for, keeping the issue of hostages at the forefront of diplomatic negotiations and public concern. The fate of those still held has become a central element in ongoing ceasefire discussions and mediation efforts.
Legal Developments and ICC Proceedings
In 2024, the ICC announced that it had sought arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the October 7 attack. At the same time, the prosecutor also requested warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant in connection with alleged war crimes related to Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. These parallel legal actions underscored the complexity of accountability efforts surrounding the conflict.
Ongoing Information War
Beyond the battlefield, the dispute highlights an intense information war, with both sides seeking to shape international perception through documents, videos, and legal appeals. As investigations, legal processes, and diplomatic efforts continue, the competing narratives surrounding October 7 remain deeply contested, influencing public opinion, international policy, and the broader course of the Gaza conflict.