What is Israel’s Hannibal Directive and Why It’s in the News

Hannibal Directive: Israel’s Controversial Policy Under Scrutiny After October 7.The Israeli military reportedly activated its controversial Hannibal Directive during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. This policy allows for the use of maximum force to prevent the capture of Israeli soldiers. The directive was invoked at several military bases overrun by militants.According to reports from Ha’aretz, the procedure was applied in the early hours of the assault. Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant later confirmed he authorized its use in certain areas during the chaos.

Understanding the Hannibal Protocol’s Purpose and History

The directive is designed to prevent politically costly prisoner swaps. It authorizes forces to target everyone near a soldier at risk of capture. This can include endangering the soldier’s own life to stop their abduction.The policy was formally introduced in 1986. It followed a series of soldier abductions by Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The Israeli government sought to avoid future lopsided prisoner exchanges.

Recent Revelations and Ongoing Controversy

The full text of the directive remained secret until 2003. In 2016, Israeli media reported the protocol was officially canceled. Lieutenant-General Gadi Eisenkot, then military chief, ended it due to confusion over permitted force levels.Despite its alleged cancellation, discussions resurfaced after October 7. Analysts note the policy reflects a brutal calculus of modern warfare. Preventing capture is sometimes prioritized above a soldier’s immediate survival.

How Ryan Coogler Spotted a ‘Roofman’ Theme Before Derek Cianfrance

The Hannibal Directive remains one of the most debated protocols in modern military doctrine. Its reported use during the October 7 attacks ensures continued scrutiny. This controversial policy highlights the extreme measures considered in hostage situations.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Hannibal Directive?

The Hannibal Directive is an Israeli military protocol. It allows for maximum force to prevent soldier capture. This can include actions that risk the soldier’s own life.

Why is it called the Hannibal Directive?

It is named after the Carthaginian general Hannibal. He allegedly chose suicide over Roman capture. However, some officials claim the name was randomly generated by computer.

Is the Hannibal Directive still active?

Reports from The Times of Israel indicated it was canceled in 2016. The directive was revoked due to confusion over its rules of engagement. Its reported use on October 7, however, has raised new questions.

What prompted the creation of this policy?

It was created after several Israeli soldier abductions in the 1980s. The government wanted to avoid politically difficult prisoner exchanges. One specific incident involved a vehicle escaping with captured soldiers while IDF troops held fire.

Who authorized the directive on October 7?

Former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed he gave the order. He stated it was applied in some areas but not others. Gallant described the inconsistent application as a tactical problem.