Thousands rally in Tel Aviv demanding independent October 7 inquiry before Israeli election

Thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv on Saturday, demanding an independent inquiry into the October 7, 2023 security failures, just three days before the country's general election. The rally, organized by the October Council, drew opposition figures and calls for accountability. The protest at Hostages Square featured leading opposition politicians, including Gadi Eisenkot and Yair Golan, with crowds chanting support for Eisenkot as a potential prime minister. The October Council, founded by families of captives, seeks a state commission of inquiry, which the government has refused, offering instead a politically-appointed commission. Polls show a tight race between Netanyahu's right-wing bloc and Eisenkot's, with neither projected to win a majority. The election outcome could influence potential strikes on Iran, though parties remain united on opposing Palestinian statehood.