Mass protests demand justice for October 7 as Israel heads to election

Three days before Israel’s election, thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square to demand an independent inquiry into the security lapses that allowed Hamas to strike on October 7, 2023. The October Council, founded by families of those taken captive to Gaza, led the protest, calling it the culmination of three years of struggle for truth and accountability. The rally was joined by opposition figures like Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu’s main rival, who faced chants of, “Who’s coming? The next prime minister.”

The October Council had warned of possible disruptions from pro-government agitators, sending an urgent letter to police about “attempts by entities linked to the coalition to disrupt tonight’s rally.” Despite this, the protest drew massive crowds, with Israeli citizen and lawyer Dan Adin describing the scene as “masses, masses of masses” flowing into Hostages Square from Rabin Square. The energy of the demonstration was evident, with Adin adding, “What energy. This time it’s ours completely!”

The election comes at a pivotal moment, with polls showing a tight race between Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc and Eisenkot’s centrist alliance. Neither bloc is projected to win a majority in Israel’s parliament, leaving the outcome uncertain. The election could also shape Israel’s next steps in its war with Iran, as Eisenkot is believed to be less inclined to resume military action against Tehran if he becomes prime minister. On most other foreign policy issues, however, Israeli parties and politicians remain united, including their opposition to an independent Palestinian state.

The October Council continues to press for justice, seeking to hold Israeli officials accountable for the October 7 attacks. Netanyahu’s government has resisted demands for an independent commission of inquiry, proposing instead a “political” commission in which half the members would be appointed by the government and the other half by opposition legislators. Opposition leaders have said they would boycott such a commission, further deepening the political divide in the country. As Israel prepares to vote, the call for justice and accountability remains at the forefront of public discourse.