Israeli Ambassador Admits Oversight During Hamas Attack: A Wake-Up Call for Cybersecurity

Israeli Ambassador's Revelations

The Israeli ambassador in Lisbon, Oren Rozenblat, acknowledged that Israel was caught off guard during the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the abduction of approximately 250 Israelis.

A Call for Vigilance

Speaking to Lusa on April 22, 2025, at a Cybersecurity Conference organized by the Israeli embassy, Rozenblat emphasized the need for Israel to be perpetually prepared for both military threats and cyberattacks.

Misconceptions About Shared Values

Rozenblat pointed out that Israel's belief in shared values with European and Portuguese nations led to complacency. He stated, "We sometimes think others share our priorities, such as education and the economy, but that is not the case with organizations like Hamas, who prioritize violence over stability."

Technological Advancements in Warfare

The ambassador highlighted Israel's recent technological advancements that allowed for precise military operations against Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. He noted that these advancements enabled targeted attacks without collateral damage to civilians, showcasing Israel's innovative approach to modern warfare.

Cybersecurity Threats

Rozenblat reiterated that Israel is constantly under threat from cyberattacks, necessitating the development of sophisticated software to counter these threats. He remarked on the importance of international cooperation in cybersecurity, expressing admiration for the preparedness of Portuguese infrastructure companies in this domain.

Collaboration with Portugal

Despite his praise, Rozenblat stressed the need for continuous improvement in cybersecurity measures. He expressed a desire to build stronger ties with Portugal in combating cybercrime, highlighting the presence of various Portuguese entities at the conference, including ANA Airports, CTT, and EDP.

Conclusion

The ambassador's comments serve as a wake-up call for both Israel and its allies regarding the importance of vigilance in the face of evolving threats, both physical and digital.