Protests hit Israel ahead of vote

Tens of thousands of Israelis filled Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday, three days before the country's first general election since the war in Gaza began. The crowd, organized by the October Council, demanded an independent investigation into the security failures that allowed the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, to succeed. The group, founded by families of captives taken to Gaza, argues that the government must answer for its lack of preparedness.

The October Council stated on social media that the rally serves as a culminating event marking three years of struggle to uncover the truth and establish a state commission of inquiry. They also warned law enforcement about potential provocations from pro-government agitators, noting they sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner regarding attempts to disrupt the event.

Gadi Eisenkot, the leader of the Yashar party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s main centre-right rival, joined the demonstration. He was greeted by chants asking who is coming as the next prime minister. Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats, also attended. Lawyer Dan Adin described the crowd from Rabin Square to Hostages Square as a massive wave of energy, declaring that the moment belongs to the protesters.

Polls indicate a tight race on Tuesday, with Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc, in power since late 2022, tied with Eisenkot’s faction. Neither side is projected to secure a majority in the Knesset. The outcome could influence Israel’s military posture, as Eisenkot is viewed as less likely to resume strikes on Iran than Netanyahu. However, major parties remain aligned on other foreign policy issues, including opposition to an independent Palestinian state.

Netanyahu’s coalition has previously rejected calls for an independent commission, proposing instead a political commission where half the members are appointed by the government and the rest by opposition legislators. Opposition leaders have threatened to boycott such a body. The Haaretz newspaper reported that similar anti-government demonstrations were held in other parts of Israel on Saturday.