Israelis demand independent Oct. 7 inquiry in Tel Aviv rally

Demonstrators gathered at Habima Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday to demand an independent state commission of inquiry into the October 7, 2023 attacks, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for blocking a probe with broad legal powers while pushing controversial legislation.

Protesters demand state commission

Protesters converged on Habima Square to criticize the government's handling of political and security affairs, with one demonstrator telling Haaretz that an official commission of inquiry was "the right way to build a new reality in Israel." She accused the government of "arrogance and narcissism," saying it showed contempt for its citizens and, amid one of Israel's most consequential wars, remained focused on pushing controversial legislation and securing its own political survival.

Political panel advances

The protest came days after the Knesset gave preliminary approval to a bill establishing a politically appointed commission to investigate the October 7 attacks, with 59 lawmakers voting in favor and none against as opposition lawmakers boycotted the vote. They argued that the government should not have a role in selecting members of a body tasked with investigating its own conduct, according to Israeli media. Netanyahu has repeatedly rejected demands for an independent state commission with broad legal powers, while backing a political panel whose composition would be influenced by the government.

Military findings and international pressure

The Israeli military has released findings from internal investigations acknowledging failures in its core mission to protect Israelis during the October 7 attacks, citing intelligence and operational shortcomings along with flawed assessments of Palestinian factions' capabilities. The findings prompted the resignation of several senior commanders, including former Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, while the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave, as Israeli cities have witnessed months of recurring demonstrations demanding accountability for political and security leaders.