Israel Election: 5,000 Demand Inquiry Into 2023 Failures

Thousands of Israelis filled Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an independent investigation into the security lapses that allowed the October 7, 2023 attacks to occur. The demonstration took place three days before the country holds its first general election since the war in Gaza began. Organizers said the event marks the culmination of three years of advocacy for accountability.

The October Council, a group founded by the families of captives taken to Gaza, coordinated the rally. The group is pressing for a state commission of inquiry to examine the government’s failure to prevent the Hamas attack. In a post on X, the council stated, "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."

Gadi Eisenkot, the leader of the Yashar party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s main center-right rival, addressed the crowd. Chants of "Who's coming? The next prime minister" echoed through the plaza as Eisenkot spoke. Yair Golan, head of the Democrats party, also attended. Lawyer Dan Adin described the scene on X, noting that "masses, masses of masses" moved from Rabin Square to Hostages Square, adding, "What energy. This time it's ours completely!"

Haaretz reported that anti-government demonstrations occurred in other locations across Israel. The October Council warned police earlier in the day about potential disruptions. The group sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner regarding alerts that entities linked to the ruling coalition might attempt to disturb the gathering.

Polls released ahead of Tuesday's vote show a tight race. Netanyahu's right-wing bloc, which has held power since late 2022, is running neck and neck with Eisenkot's coalition. Neither side is currently projected to win a majority of seats in the Knesset. The election outcome may influence whether Israel resumes military strikes against Iran. Eisenkot is viewed as less likely to restart those operations if he becomes prime minister.

On foreign policy, major Israeli parties remain largely aligned, including in their opposition to an independent Palestinian state. Netanyahu’s government has previously rejected calls for an independent inquiry. The coalition proposed a "political" commission where half the members would be appointed by the government and the rest by opposition legislators. Opposition leaders have said they would boycott a body appointed by politicians rather than experts.