Seismic Data Used to Identify Hamas Movements

A study by researchers from Tel Aviv University has revealed that seismic data recorded on October 7 indicated unusual movements of heavy vehicles in the Gaza Strip, possibly linked to the Hamas attack. Analyzing data from three seismic stations in southern Israel, the researchers found that weak ground motions began approximately 20 minutes before the breach of the border fence. This research marks the first identification of seismic signatures associated with preparations for a terrorist attack, demonstrating the potential for seismic-based early warning systems. However, the identification was made retroactively, months after the event, raising questions about the real-time applicability of the findings. The study was led by Dr. Asaf Inbal and published in The Seismic Record, emphasizing the innovative use of forensic seismology in security contexts. The Israeli Geological Survey operates the network of seismometers that facilitated this analysis.