Thousands Rally in Tel Aviv Demanding October 7 Inquiry Ahead of Election

Organized by the October Council, an association of survivors, former hostages, and bereaved families, the rally took place just three days before Israel's upcoming election on October 27. The organizers aimed to place the demand for a state commission of inquiry at the center of the public discourse ahead of the vote, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes such an inquiry.

Prior to the event, the October Council sent an urgent letter to Police Commissioner Danny Levy warning of potential disruptions by individuals linked to the ruling coalition. The council requested an increased police presence to prevent unauthorized signs and flags from undermining the rally's message, instructing attendees to avoid provocations.

The demonstration was preceded by a "Great Democracy March" from Rabin Square, led by members of the Democrats party and its chairman, Yair Golan. Other prominent political figures attended the main rally, including Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party and Avigdor Liberman of Yisrael Beytenu, alongside relatives of victims and former hostages.