Am Israel Party Proposes New Model for Oct. 7 Investigation

Three years after the October 7th massacre, the Am Israel party, led by Ofer Winter, has unveiled a proposal for a comprehensive investigation mechanism. The party criticizes both the coalition and opposition for the lack of an official inquiry, calling it a "shared disgrace" due to their alleged involvement in the failures leading up to the event. The proposed "investigation mechanism" aims to remove the inquiry from political disputes and base it on "truth, trust, and results."

The plan suggests a body independent of government control and political factions, ensuring no single entity can obstruct the truth-finding process. This mechanism would combine judicial independence and professional expertise, with representation from affected authorities and families. It would possess full investigative powers, operate without political limitations on inquiry directions, and commit to presenting initial findings within six months of commencing work.

The proposal outlines that the new Knesset would elect the chairperson and deputy of the investigation committee through a secret ballot, similar to presidential elections, with the two candidates receiving the most votes serving in these roles. The investigation team itself would include bereaved families, representatives of hostages, and direct victims, who would actively participate in the committee's work. The party emphasizes that this approach is necessary to honor the fallen and their families, and to prevent future tragedies by thoroughly examining not only the events of October 7th but also relevant preceding processes and decisions, including Operation Protective Edge.

Am Israel stated, "The fact that no investigation committee has been established to date is a shared disgrace for the coalition and the opposition. Both sides have an interest in there not being an investigation committee because they were part of the failure." They believe their proposed mechanism is the most suitable for a credible inquiry acceptable to all segments of the public.