The IDF has released its investigation into the battles defending Kibbutz Mefalsim, the 'Black Arrow' monument, and Sha'ar HaNegev junction during Hamas's surprise attack on the Gaza envelope on October 7, 2023. According to the investigation, 200 terrorists infiltrated these three locations in three waves, initially faced only by soldiers from a single Golani Brigade company. The loss of control over strategic points allowed the infiltrators to set up ambushes for vehicles and those fleeing from a party. 77 civilians were killed in the area and 13 security personnel fell, with the investigation noting that the kibbutz's emergency response team's performance prevented a much larger massacre. Additionally, the investigation criticizes the deployment of forces in the area.