Gadi Eizenkot Proposes State Inquiry Commission to Investigate October 2023 Massacre

Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot visited Kibbutz Nir Oz on August 5, 2026, where he announced a new initiative to establish a state inquiry commission. The commission will investigate the political, military, and civilian decisions leading up to the October 7, 2023 massacre, focusing on the decade following Operation Protective Edge. Eizenkot presented a draft proposal for the commission’s formation, which will be open for public comment until October 7, 2026, aiming to increase transparency and public trust.

Eizenkot sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government for avoiding responsibility and delaying the formation of such a commission for nearly three years. He emphasized that despite the IDF’s efforts and sacrifices, the war’s ultimate goal of dismantling Hamas and Islamic Jihad’s military capabilities remains unfulfilled. Eizenkot called for national unity and resilience, highlighting the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in the Gaza border communities, especially Nir Oz, which suffered greatly during the attack.

Gadi Mozes, a survivor of captivity by Islamic Jihad and co-initiator of the proposal, expressed optimism about the commission’s potential to heal and unify Israeli society. He stressed that without a state inquiry, residents of the Gaza periphery lack a sense of security, hindering their return and recovery. Mozes urged the next government to prioritize establishing the commission to ensure accountability and restore confidence.

The proposed commission’s composition will follow the State Inquiry Commission Law, with recommendations for the president to consult with other senior officials on its makeup. Eizenkot’s initiative represents a significant step toward addressing the failures exposed by the 2023 massacre and fostering a stronger, more secure Israel.