Families Demand Probe Before Vote

Thousands of Israelis assembled in Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an independent investigation into the security lapses that allowed the October 7, 2023 attacks to succeed. The rally, held in the public plaza known as Hostages Square, took place with only three days remaining until the country’s first general election since the Gaza war began.

The October Council, a group founded by families of captives taken to Gaza three years prior, organized the event. The group seeks to hold government officials accountable for failing to prevent the Hamas attack. "Three days before the election, we will hold the culminating event marking three years of struggle to uncover the truth, demand accountability and establish a state commission of inquiry," the council posted on social media platform X.

Opposition leaders joined the demonstrators in Tel Aviv. Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and the main centre-right rival to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, spoke to the crowd. He was greeted by chants asking, "Who's coming? The next prime minister." Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats, also attended. Lawyer Dan Adin described the scene as "masses, masses of masses" flowing from Rabin Square to Hostages Square.

Pre-election polls indicate a tight race. Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc, which has held power since late 2022, is currently neck and neck with Eisenkot’s bloc. Neither side is projected to secure a majority of seats in the parliament. The outcome may influence whether Israel launches new strikes on Iran, as Eisenkot is viewed as less likely to resume military action against Tehran if he becomes prime minister.

The October Council warned law enforcement about potential disruptions from pro-government agitators before the rally. The group stated it sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner regarding attempts by entities linked to the coalition to interfere. Netanyahu’s government has previously rejected calls for an independent commission, proposing instead a political body where the government appoints half the members. Opposition leaders have vowed to boycott a commission selected by politicians.

Other anti-government protests were reported across Israel by the Haaretz newspaper. The demonstrations reflect growing pressure on the ruling coalition to address the circumstances surrounding the attacks. The government maintains its stance that a political commission is sufficient, while families of victims argue for independent oversight to determine what went wrong.