
Israelis Demand Accountability for October 7 as Security Vigilance Endures
A new television survey finds that a large majority of Israelis remain deeply mindful of the nation’s security nearly three years after the October 7, 2023, massacre. Asked whether they fear that another disaster on the scale of that onslaught could occur in the future, 74 percent of respondents said yes, while 20 percent said no. The October 7 attack saw thousands of terrorists storm southern Israel, murdering some 1,200 people and seizing 251 hostages. In the years since, Israel has waged sweeping campaigns against its enemies in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran.
The survey, aired Friday, June 26, also revealed a strong public appetite for accountability. Sixty-six percent of respondents said they want the failures that preceded the massacre investigated by a statutory state commission of inquiry, whose members are selected by the president of the Supreme Court. Such commissions are Israel’s highest investigative authority, empowered to subpoena witnesses and recommend systemic reforms. On whether the country’s security has improved since the attack, Israelis were evenly split, with 33 percent saying it had worsened and 33 percent saying it had improved.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted a commission whose members are appointed by the judiciary, which he contends is biased against him, proposing instead a body chosen through a political process. The poll was conducted by the Midgam research institute in cooperation with the iPanel firm. Taken together, the findings reflect a public that remains vigilant and determined to learn the lessons of October 7. Even amid the debate over how best to investigate those failures, the resolve to safeguard the nation runs deep.
(TOI/VFI News)
Almighty God, we lift up the people of Israel, who carry the weight of October 7 and the uncertainty of what may come. We ask that You replace anxiety with steadfast trust in You, the Rock and Refuge of Your people. Grant Israel’s leaders wisdom and integrity to confront past failures honestly and to strengthen the nation’s defenses. Be a wall of fire around Your land, and let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard the hearts of all who dwell there, in Yeshua’s Name.