Eisenkot joins 5,000 at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv

The clock is ticking toward Israel's first general election since the war in Gaza began. On Saturday, thousands of citizens filled the public plaza in Tel Aviv known as Hostages Square to press their case for an independent investigation into the security failures of October 7, 2023.

The gathering was organized by the October Council, a group established by the families of captives taken to Gaza three years ago. The council seeks to hold Israeli officials accountable for the events that preceded the war. A statement posted on X by the group described the event as the culmination of three years of struggle to uncover the truth and establish a state commission of inquiry.

Gadi Eisenkot, the leader of the Yashar party and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's main center-right rival, addressed the crowd. Witnesses reported that Eisenkot was greeted by chants asking who is coming as the next prime minister. Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats, also attended the rally. Lawyer Dan Adin, observing the march from Rabin Square to Hostages Square, noted the large turnout on social media, calling the energy entirely theirs.

Polls indicate a tight race between Netanyahu's right-wing bloc, which has held power since late 2022, and Eisenkot's coalition. Neither side is currently projected to secure a majority of seats in parliament. The outcome may influence whether Israel launches another round of strikes on Iran, as Eisenkot is viewed as less inclined to resume military action against Tehran. On other foreign policy issues, including opposition to an independent Palestinian state, the leading parties remain largely united.

Before the protest began, the October Council warned law enforcement of potential disruptions. The group sent an urgent letter to the Police Commissioner regarding alerts that entities linked to the coalition government might attempt to interfere with the rally. Pro-government agitators were expected to be present in the area.

Netanyahu's coalition has previously refused demands for an independent commission of inquiry. Instead, the government offered to create a political commission where half the members would be appointed by the government and the rest by opposition legislators. Opposition leaders have stated they would boycott a commission appointed by politicians. The vote is scheduled for Tuesday.