Thousands Protest in Tel Aviv Against Netanyahu Government Ahead of Elections

Thousands of Israelis demonstrated in Tel Aviv on Saturday evening against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, calling for an official inquiry into the failures surrounding the October 7, 2023 attacks. Protestors carried signs reading, "The People Demand an Official Investigation Committee," "Israel Wants Change, We Will Vote for a Better Future," and "Goodbye to the Deceptive Government." The demonstration was organized by the "October Council," an umbrella group of former hostages released from Gaza and families of slain hostages. Organizers sent a letter to the Inspector General of Police requesting increased security due to fears of provocations by far-right activists. The "October Council" stated they would not allow anyone to exploit the demonstration's message and warned of credible information suggesting groups linked to coalition parties intended to incite clashes and riots. They issued a formal warning to the police, urging them to ensure participant safety and prevent deliberate disruptions. The council clarified that any provocations or violent incidents involving external groups would not represent the demonstration's stance and are not their responsibility, placing the onus on the police to maintain order. The Likud party attempted to prevent live broadcasts of the protest, citing concerns about election propaganda, but the Central Elections Committee chairman rejected the request. Similar protests against the Netanyahu government took place in Haifa, with over a thousand participants, and in Beersheba.