Thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, demanding an independent state commission of inquiry into the security failures surrounding the October 7, 2023, attacks. The demonstration filled Hostages Square just three days before Israel’s first general election since the onset of the war on Gaza.
The protest was organized by the October Council, an advocacy group established by the families of captives taken to Gaza three years ago, to press for official accountability. Ahead of the event, the group stated on X that the rally marked the culmination of a three-year campaign to uncover the truth and secure a formal, independent investigation.
Prominent figures from opposition parties joined the demonstration, including Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party, who serves as Netanyahu’s primary center-right rival, and Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats. According to local media reports, Eisenkot was met by crowds chanting slogans supporting his bid for the premiership, while thousands participated in a march from Rabin Square to Hostages Square.
Ahead of Tuesday’s ballot, opinion polls indicate a tight contest between Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc, which has been in power since late 2022, and Eisenkot’s alliance. Neither political bloc is currently projected to secure an outright majority of seats in the Israeli parliament, leaving the outcome pivotal for both domestic governance and foreign policy decisions.
Analysts note the election could influence Israel’s regional posture, including its approach toward Iran. Eisenkot is considered less inclined to resume military strikes against Tehran should he assume office, though major Israeli political factions remain broadly aligned on other core foreign policy matters, such as their shared opposition to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Tensions surrounding the demonstration prompted the October Council to notify law enforcement regarding potential disruptions. The group reported sending an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner warning of anticipated provocations by entities linked to the governing coalition.
Netanyahu’s government has consistently rejected demands for an independent commission of inquiry, proposing instead a politically appointed panel composed equally of government choices and opposition-appointed legislators. Opposition leaders have rejected that proposal, stating they would boycott any inquiry formed through political appointments.
