Protesters Gather in Habima Square
On February 7, 2026, approximately 1,500 people convened in Habima Square in Tel Aviv, Israel, to demand the establishment of a state commission of inquiry into the systemic failures preceding and during the October 7, 2023, attacks. The demonstration saw the participation of various affected groups, including former hostages and bereaved parents, who voiced their profound dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the events.
Voices of the Affected
Among the prominent figures at the protest were former hostages Louis Har and Clara Marman. Bereaved parents also shared their personal tragedies and called for accountability. Michel Illouz, father of slain hostage Guy Illouz, directly addressed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, 'You owe me! You owe it to my son!' Shir Mathias, whose parents, Shlomi and Debora, were murdered in Kibbutz Holit, expressed her anguish, saying, 'I am an orphan because the Israeli government abandoned my parents.' Rafi Ben Shtrit, father of Staff Sgt. Elroy Ben Shtrit, who died defending the Nahal Oz outpost, accused the political leadership of 'denying and evading their responsibility.' The protest was organized in part by the October Council, a group representing families directly impacted by the attacks.
Demand for an Independent Inquiry
The central demand of the protesters was for an independent state commission of inquiry, a traditional mechanism in Israel for investigating major governmental failures, typically led by a retired judge. This call comes amidst widespread public pressure for transparency and a thorough investigation into the security and decision-making lapses that allowed the October 7 attacks to occur. Public opinion polls have indicated significant support for such an independent body.
Government's Stance and Public Criticism
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced criticism for resisting calls for a fully independent state commission. Instead, the government has proposed a committee that critics argue lacks the necessary independence, with some labeling it a 'cover-up commission.' Opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and current Opposition leader Yair Lapid, have publicly supported the demand for a state inquiry, emphasizing the need for the government to acknowledge its mistakes and prevent future failures. The October 7 attacks, carried out by Hamas-led militants, resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and over 250 individuals taken hostage, triggering the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
5 Comments
Bermudez
It's clear that significant errors occurred leading up to October 7, and a thorough investigation is vital for future security. Yet, we must also acknowledge the immense pressure on the current leadership and ensure any inquiry doesn't impede ongoing security operations.
Africa
The public's desire for transparency and an independent investigation into the government's failures is valid and strong. Still, the government's reluctance might stem from concerns about national security implications or internal political stability during wartime, which are also factors to consider.
Coccinella
The voices of the bereaved and former hostages must be heard. Their pain demands justice.
Muchacho
While the demand for accountability is completely understandable and necessary, it's difficult to see how a full-scale inquiry can proceed effectively while the nation is still actively engaged in conflict. A phased approach might be more realistic.
ZmeeLove
An inquiry now would only distract our leaders and military. Let them do their job.