Israelis Mass Protest Netanyahu Government Days Before Pivotal Election

Opposition figures joined thousands of protesters in Tel Aviv on Saturday demanding an independent inquiry into the October 7 security failures, just three days before the country’s first general election since the war in Gaza began.

Demonstrators gathered at Hostages Square, organized by the October Council — a group founded by families of hostages taken to Gaza — to demand accountability for the government’s failure to prevent the Hamas-led attack that triggered the war.

“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,” the October Council posted on X ahead of the rally.

Simultaneous anti-government demonstrations took place elsewhere in Israel, according to Haaretz.

Prominent opposition leaders attended, including Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party, widely seen as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s main center-right rival, and Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats.

Eisenkot was greeted with chants of “Who’s coming? The next prime minister,” The Times of Israel reported. Attorney and activist Dan Adin described the march from Rabin Square to Hostages Square on X as a massive show of energy for “change, for hope, for revolution.”

Pre-election polls indicate a tight race, with Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc, in power since late 2022, running neck-and-neck with Eisenkot’s camp; neither is projected to secure a parliamentary majority.

The election outcome could determine whether Israel launches further strikes on Iran. Eisenkot is perceived as less likely to resume military action against Tehran if he assumes office.

However, across most other foreign policy issues — including opposition to an independent Palestinian state — leading Israeli parties remain largely aligned.

Ahead of the protest, the October Council warned police of potential provocations by pro-government agitators, sending an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner regarding alleged attempts by coalition-linked entities to disrupt the rally.

The Council seeks to hold officials responsible for the October 7 failures accountable and secure justice for affected families.

Netanyahu’s coalition has rejected an independent commission, proposing instead a “political” commission half-appointed by the government and half by opposition lawmakers.

Opposition leaders have vowed to boycott any politically appointed commission.

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