Thousands rally against Netanyahu government three days before Israel’s election

Thousands of Israelis rallied against the government in Tel Aviv on Saturday, demanding an independent inquiry into security failures preceding Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack.

The protest took place at Hostages Square three days before Israel’s first general election since the war in Gaza began. It was organised by the October Council, founded by families of people taken hostage in Gaza.

Opposition figures join protest

Opposition leaders taking part included Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party and Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats. Anti-government demonstrations were also being held elsewhere in Israel, Haaretz reported.

The October Council says it wants Israeli officials it considers responsible for the attack held accountable and seeks justice for affected families. Before the rally, organisers warned police about possible provocations by pro-government activists.

Dispute over inquiry commission

Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government has rejected calls for an independent commission of inquiry. Instead, it proposed a political commission whose members would be split between government appointees and opposition legislators.

Opposition leaders have said they would boycott a commission appointed by politicians. They are calling for a body independent of the government and parliamentary parties.

Election race remains tight

Polls ahead of Tuesday’s election show Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc and Eisenkot’s bloc running neck and neck. Neither bloc is currently projected to win a parliamentary majority.

The result could affect whether Israel launches another round of military action against Iran, as Eisenkot is considered less inclined to resume strikes on Tehran. On most other major foreign-policy issues, including opposition to an independent Palestinian state, leading Israeli parties remain aligned.