Tel Aviv: 5,000 Protesters Demand State Commission

Five thousand Israelis marched through Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an independent inquiry into the government's handling of the October 7, 2023 attacks. The demonstration took place in Hostages Square, a public plaza that has become a focal point for families of hostages taken during the Hamas assault three years ago.

The October Council, which organized the event, stated it was marking three years of advocacy for accountability. The group has long pressed for a state commission of inquiry to investigate why the security apparatus failed to prevent the attack. This specific rally was timed to occur just 72 hours before the country holds its first general election since the war in Gaza began.

Leading opposition figures joined the crowd to signal their support for the demand. Gadi Eisenkot, the head of the Yashar party, walked alongside protesters and was met with chants calling him the next prime minister. Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party, also attended. Dan Adin, a lawyer and citizen, described the energy of the march from Rabin Square to Hostages Square on social media, noting the large number of participants.

Polls released ahead of Tuesday's vote indicate a dead heat between the two main political blocs. Neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition, which has held power since late 2022, nor Eisenkot's centre-right opposition is currently projected to win a majority in the Knesset. The outcome of the election is expected to influence decisions on military action, particularly regarding potential new strikes on Iran.

Eisenkot is viewed as less likely to resume military operations against Tehran if he takes office. However, major parties remain largely aligned on other foreign policy issues, including the continued opposition to an independent Palestinian state. The election result will determine which leader navigates these diplomatic and military challenges next.

Before the rally began, the October Council warned police about potential disruptions. The group sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner citing alerts about pro-government agitators attempting to interfere with the event. The council has previously rejected a proposal from Netanyahu's government to create a political commission, arguing that a state commission is necessary for credibility.

Netanyahu's coalition has offered a commission where half the members would be appointed by the government and the rest by opposition legislators. Opposition leaders have said they would boycott such a body, insisting that only an independent state commission can deliver justice for the families affected by the 2023 attacks.