Israeli Knesset Approves First Reading of National Inquiry Committee Bill on October 7 Attack

The Israeli Knesset approved in a first reading the bill to establish a National Inquiry Committee investigating the October 7 attack, despite opposition boycott and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's earlier request to delay the legislation. The bill was submitted by Likud MK Ariel Kallner. The opposition parties boycotted the vote in protest.

About two months ago, representatives of bereaved families and former hostages from the "October Council" held a press conference in the Knesset plenum demanding the formation of a state inquiry into the failures surrounding the October 7 incident. Former captive Rom Breslavsky addressed the Knesset members harshly, accusing them of responsibility for the bloodshed and calling for their resignation. He described the trauma of captivity and the lack of support upon his return.

Ayal Eshel, father of Roni Eshel, a fallen lookout at Nahal Oz outpost, criticized coalition members for avoiding accountability and shifting blame onto victims. He cited disparaging remarks by government ministers, including the Culture Minister calling victims "self-pitying," the Minister for National Missions labeling the period a "miracle," and the Finance Minister describing the event as a "tactical failure." Eshel condemned these statements as disrespectful to the fallen.

The bill's advancement marks a significant step toward a formal investigation into the October 7 attack, which has deeply affected Israeli society. The next stages will involve further readings and debates before the committee's official establishment.