Despite pre-Oct. 7 warning, PM reportedly feared Gaza strikes would undermine Saudi talks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly did not mention a warning from the UAE president regarding Hamas's planned attack at a Gaza security meeting that took place six days before the October 7 massacre, according to a report by The New York Times. The newspaper cited five former Israeli security officials who claimed Netanyahu dismissed suggestions to target Hamas leaders directing terror attacks in the West Bank, stating instead that Israel should remain calm amid a potential diplomatic agreement with Saudi Arabia.

The report follows an earlier investigation by Haaretz, published on September 8, alleging that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan warned Netanyahu of a major Hamas operation against Israel in the days leading up to the October 7 attack. However, Netanyahu has denied these allegations, asserting that his lawyers filed a libel lawsuit against Haaretz and journalist Shlomi Eldar.

The Prime Minister's Office rejected the claims, stating there was no evidence of the UAE representative entering the Prime Minister's Office during the investigation period. The UAE also rejected the Haaretz report, insisting it discusses security matters through appropriate channels and not at the level of national leaders. Two U.S. sources also confirmed they were unaware of any specific UAE warning before October 7.