As dawn broke over Israel’s border with Gaza on Wednesday, the residents of Kfar Aza made their way solemnly to the kibbutz’s central armory. It was here, on the morning of October 7, 2023, that attackers led by Hamas took the lives of half of the community’s 14-member civil defense team. Among the victims were 64 individuals killed and 19 kidnapped from this community alone on that tragic day.
The impact of these attacks remains raw, and now, three years later, questions linger about the accountability for Israel’s security lapses. “I need my country to take responsibility,” stated Inbar Goldstein, whose brother and niece were killed, and four other family members were kidnapped that day.
Calls for an Independent Inquiry
The October 7 attack marked the deadliest assault on Israel since its founding in 1948, with approximately 1,200 people killed across southern Israel. Additionally, 251 individuals were taken hostage back to Gaza. Despite the magnitude of this security breach, Israel has yet to initiate an independent state inquiry to investigate how such an event was possible.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was in charge during the attack, is once again campaigning for election, promising to be stronger and tougher in protecting Israel. However, questions persist about the intelligence failures leading up to the attack, including what Netanyahu knew and when.
Unanswered Questions and Political Implications
Prior warnings from young female soldiers stationed at bases along the Gaza border about potential attacks were reportedly ignored. Among those killed when gunmen overran their base was Roni Eshel. Her uncle, Elad Levy, expressed frustration over unanswered questions, including whether warnings from international allies were disregarded.
Reports have surfaced claiming Netanyahu received warnings from various sources, including neighboring countries. A controversial claim was made that the UAE’s leader had alerted Netanyahu of impending plans by Hamas, which Netanyahu has denied, threatening legal action against the media outlet reporting it.
Netanyahu’s Defense and Criticism
Netanyahu has attributed the failure to his security chiefs, accusing them of not waking him due to fears of escalating the situation. He suggested that had he been informed, the outcome might have been different.
However, Yaakov Katz, a journalist and author, pointed out that Netanyahu’s longstanding policy of containing Hamas may have contributed to the attack. For years, Netanyahu oversaw a strategy that included allowing significant financial aid into Gaza, purportedly to avoid a humanitarian crisis.
Public and Political Reactions
In the aftermath, military commanders were dismissed, and Israel’s domestic intelligence chief resigned. Yet, Netanyahu has refused to accept personal responsibility, a stance that has become a focal point in the upcoming elections.
Calls for a comprehensive state inquiry have intensified, with campaigners urging Israel’s highest court to compel the government to act. Yizhar Shai, a former minister whose son was killed in the attack, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.
Netanyahu’s refusal to engage in a state-led inquiry has been met with criticism, as he proposes a politically appointed commission instead. This has become a contentious election issue, with his main opponent releasing a satirical video game highlighting Netanyahu’s alleged avoidance of responsibility.
As the elections approach, the shadow of the October 7 attacks looms large, dividing voters. While some see Netanyahu as essential for Israel’s security, others argue his leadership continues to place the nation at risk.
