Intelligence Officers Recount: Behind The Hamas No. 2’s ‘Last Supper’
Israeli defense officials disclosed new information Sunday about the intelligence campaign that led to the killing of Ra’ad Sa’ad, a senior Hamas figure who headed the terror group’s weapons production apparatus and played a central role in the October 7 massacre.
The operation, known as “Operation Last Supper,” was carried out just over a week ago and, according to officers involved, ranks among the most accurate and strategically significant strikes since the fighting began.
Sa’ad was regarded as a driving force behind Hamas’s weapons buildup and its so-called development “revolution,” overseeing the arming of terrorists while remaining deeply involved in operational planning.
Lieutenant M., who leads the Development Targets Department in the Intelligence Directorate, described Sa’ad as an especially elusive target who deliberately embedded himself among civilians. “He would make sure to stay in motion,” M. said in an interview published on the IDF’s Hebrew-language website. “He would move between hiding spots, he would stay in mosques, hospitals, and areas full of civilians, understanding that he was a top target.”
According to M., Sa’ad was not only involved in planning Hamas’s major attacks but took an active role in executing them, including the “Walls of Jericho” invasion plan aimed at Israeli communities near Gaza. “Beyond the operational coordination, he was particularly responsible for supplying weapons to the Hamas forces.”
Additional insight into the intelligence effort was provided by Lieutenant Y., head of the Enemy Activity Target Department in the Research Division, who emphasized the methodical nature of the operation. “The process was built over time. Persistent intelligence gathering, close surveillance, and early preparation, until the window of opportunity opened. When we got a clear picture, we acted precisely and swiftly.”
Y. stressed the strategic weight of the strike, describing Sa’ad as a linchpin within Hamas’s leadership structure. “The importance of the elimination is clear. This was one of the most active senior officials, a member of the original [Hamas] general staff, and a man who was directly behind smuggling and supplying weapons to attack Israel. We could not allow this to continue.”
He added that the removal of Sa’ad has already had a tangible impact on Hamas’s operational capabilities. “The damage to their ability to continue building up their capabilities is evident. Today they are operating out of necessity, with isolated attempts and a recovery capacity that is steadily diminishing.”
Despite the success, intelligence officials cautioned against complacency, underscoring that further operations remain ahead. “There is still work,” Lt. M. said. “We know who’s next in line. Each soldier and officer here understands the gravity of the mission; this elimination gives a sense of satisfaction, but there’s still a long road ahead.”
{Matzav.com}
