Thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets in recent days to protest against the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, demanding a formal investigation into what they are calling the “October 7th failures.” These demonstrations are in reference to the attacks launched by Palestinian militants on October 7th, 2023.
In Jerusalem, protesters gathered outside the residence of President Isaac Herzog, urging him not to grant any potential pardon to Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges. Similar demonstrations took place in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Beersheba, where families of Israelis killed or taken captive during the October 7th attacks called for accountability and demanded that the government not sweep the alleged failures under the rug.
The calls for an official inquiry have intensified following recent criticism from Ronen Bar, the former head of the Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security service. Bar publicly attacked Netanyahu, stating that a formal commission of inquiry is necessary to fully investigate the events of October 7th. He warned that without a thorough investigation of the entire system, the Israeli people are essentially setting themselves up for a repeat of the events.
Netanyahu has so far rejected calls from the opposition to establish a formal commission of inquiry. Instead, he announced the formation of an independent, unofficial committee on November 16th. Critics argue that this alternative committee lacks the necessary authority and independence to conduct a credible investigation. The October 7th attacks saw militants breach the border and launch attacks on military bases and civilian settlements near the Gaza Strip, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages.
Netanyahu is currently on trial for corruption charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the charges are politically motivated and that the trial will ultimately prove his innocence. A recent poll indicated that a majority of Israelis oppose granting Netanyahu a presidential pardon, with many believing that his government is deeply mired in corruption. The poll revealed that approximately 50% of respondents oppose any pardon that President Herzog might consider, while 41% believe it would be necessary for Netanyahu to continue.
