# Israel Nili unit intelligence and targeting operations > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/israel-nili-unit-intelligence-and-targeting-operations > Updated: 2026-08-12T04:35:31.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security service have acknowledged the existence of ‘Nili’, a joint special unit established following the October 7, 2023, attacks. The unit is tasked with identifying and eliminating individuals responsible for the attacks and the kidnapping of hostages, including high-ranking Hamas commanders and members of the Nukhba. Reports indicate that the unit has eliminated approximately 2,800 individuals from a target list of roughly 5,000 people. To execute these operations, Nili utilizes a combination of traditional human intelligence (HUMINT) and modern technologies, such as facial recognition software, artificial intelligence, and footage from internet videos and GoPro cameras. This specialized targeting effort follows previous reports regarding the Israeli military’s use of AI-based systems in Gaza, such as ‘Lavender’, ‘The Gospel’ (Habsor), and ‘Where’s Daddy?’. Officials state that targeting decisions are made with legal oversight to ensure precision. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-12: Israel's Nili unit identified in Gaza operations A joint Israeli military and Shin Bet unit named ‘Nili’ is reportedly using AI, facial recognition, and human intelligence to target Palestinians in Gaza. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/israels-nili-unit-identified-in-gaza-operations ### 2026-08-09: Israel’s Nili unit eliminates 2,800 targets since October 7 attacks Israel’s special Nili unit, a joint IDF and Shin Bet operation, has reportedly eliminated 2,800 individuals linked to the October 7 attacks and hostage-taking out of a target list of 5,000. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/israels-nili-unit-eliminates-2800-targets-since-october-7-attacks --- Cite as: Israel Nili unit intelligence and targeting operations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/israel-nili-unit-intelligence-and-targeting-operations