Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received an 'explicit warning' from the United Arab Emirates about Hamas plans to carry out a major attack before the Oct. 7 events, but he failed to brief Israel's security chiefs, Haaretz reported on Tuesday. The report details a conversation between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Netanyahu, where the UAE leader cautioned about a significant operation being planned by Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

According to Anadolu Agency, Haaretz based its report on various sources, including recordings, documents, and correspondence, highlighting the UAE president's insistence that Netanyahu take the threat seriously. Despite assurances to bin Zayed that Israel was ready for any scenario, Netanyahu reportedly did not inform the heads of key Israeli security agencies about the warning.

A senior Shin Bet official mentioned that having such warnings could have altered Israel's security assessment. Haaretz also reported that bin Zayed later discussed his concerns with then-CIA Director William Burns, indicating the gravity of the situation.

The report further reveals other warnings received by Israeli authorities. A Palestinian intermediary reportedly communicated to the Shin Bet about a 'huge surprise' planned by Sinwar, which led to a briefing with Netanyahu and subsequent security discussions. Additionally, then-Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel reportedly warned Netanyahu's office of unusual activities by Hamas.

Netanyahu's office, however, firmly denied any warning from the UAE leader, labeling the Haaretz report as false. Former Shin Bet and Israeli army chiefs claimed they were not informed of the UAE warning.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett supported the Haaretz report, accusing Netanyahu of negligence and responsibility for the deaths resulting from the attack. Opposition politician Gadi Eisenkot echoed similar sentiments, criticizing Netanyahu for ignoring numerous warnings.

The report comes in the aftermath of the Israeli army's offensive on Gaza, which began on Oct. 8, 2023, leading to significant casualties and destruction in the region.