Thousands rally in Tel Aviv against Netanyahu ahead of vote

Key Points:

• Thousands participated in a protest organized by the October Council, comprised of families of victims and hostages from the October 7 Hamas attack, demanding accountability and an independent inquiry into the security failures preceding the Gaza war.
• Leaders of Israel's four main opposition parties, including former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, attended the rally, which highlighted public dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Netanyahu's government and its handling of security and international relations.
• Recent polls indicate a tight race ahead of the election, with Eisenkot's bloc holding a slight lead over Netanyahu's but neither expected to secure a parliamentary majority, reflecting a fragmented political landscape.
• Netanyahu's proposal for a politically appointed commission of inquiry and a potential alternative digital economy met strong criticism from opposition figures, who warned it could isolate Israel further and harm its economy and security ties.
• The protest underscored broader concerns about Israel's international standing amid ongoing conflicts and sanctions related to settlement policies, with young voters expressing hope for political change to improve the country's global image.