Decision-Making Processes in the Swords of Iron War with Hamas

This article analyzes the decision- making process of Israel's government during the first phase of "Swords of Iron" war that began on October 7<sup>th</sup>, 2023 when Hamas' activists, together with its affiliates invaded the northern part of the Israeli Negev, killed about 1200 people, wounded about 4800 and kidnapped 251 residents and soldiers into Gaza Strip. Israel's government convened on the same day and declared that Israel is in a state of war. Soon after this declaration, members of the National Unity Party joined the government, and Prime Minister Netanyahu established a "War Cabinet" to manage the war. On October 7<sup>th</sup>, 2023 Israel's government decided not to allow humanitarian aid to get into Gaza Strip. Israel's government had to make several important decisions on the first part of the war, that will be analyzed based on the "Two Group Decision- Making Model", including the debates inside the Political – Security Cabinet and the government, and the way decisions were made in the end : The decision to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza Strip; The decision on a "hostage deal" that will enable the release of people abducted and held under Hamas captivity; The debate on the decision who will rule Gaza Strip on "The day after".