Thousands Protest Across Israel Demanding State Inquiry 1000 Days After October 7 Massacre

On the 1000th day since the October 7 massacre, widespread protests erupted across Israel on Thursday morning, featuring roadblocks, memorial ceremonies, and public demonstrations. The events began at 6:29 a.m., the exact time the surprise attack started, with participants including bereaved families and public officials demanding the establishment of a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures leading to the tragedy.

In Jerusalem, near the Knesset and Paris Square, protesters held symbolic displays such as a funeral procession and wore orange jumpsuits, while holding signs condemning what they described as a "moral, leadership, and strategic failure" by the political leadership. Additional protests blocked traffic at Karkur Junction and included vigils near the Prime Minister's residence in Caesarea.

Political figures also took part in the commemorations. Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza and criticized government officials for ignoring warnings prior to the attack. He pledged that the next government would immediately establish a state inquiry commission. Former IDF Chief of Staff and current Knesset member Gadi Eizenkot released a statement marking the milestone and vowed, "We will still be worthy. I commit myself."

Bereaved families called on citizens to join their demand for accountability, emphasizing that those responsible must face justice. Additional events planned for the day include a nationwide moment of silence at 10:00 a.m., the opening of an exhibition of victims' belongings at Beit Ariela in Tel Aviv, and an evening march from Savidor Central Train Station to Shaul HaMelech Boulevard, culminating in a central rally at Kidon Square.