In brief
The memory of the Oct 7 raid still haunts Kfar Aza, where 64 residents were killed and 19 taken hostage. Citizens call for a state commission to investigate why Israeli security failed to prevent the assault, demanding accountability from the Prime Minister and intelligence chiefs. Opposition groups have urged the Supreme Court to force an inquiry, while Netanyahu maintains he will not personally be held responsible. Amid the 2026 elections, the attacks remain a key issue for voters, with some seeing the Prime Minister’s track record as evidence of strength and others demanding a thorough review of Israel’s security system.
When the dawn light slipped over Israel’s Gaza border on 7 October 2023, residents of the kibbutz Kfar Aza quietly approached the central armoury, unaware that a Hamas‑led assault would soon claim 64 of their community and leave 19 hostages.
Three years on, the pain of the loss persists, but a growing question now echoes through the streets: who must answer for the catastrophic security failure? The Prime Minister has been unrepentant, denying personal responsibility and insisting that he will not be accused of negligence.
Citizens like Inbar Goldstein, whose family was decimated, demand an independent state commission of inquiry. They argue that the current “national commission” proposed by the ruling Likud party, whose members would be chosen by politics, is a sham that protects leaders from scrutiny.
Opposition voices, including former minister Yizhar Shai and General‑ranked Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, argue that an accountable inquiry is essential to prevent future attacks. Reports seal that warnings were given to Netanyahu by security chiefs and neighboring states weeks before the attack – claims he has refused to acknowledge.
Netanyahu’s denial has become an election issue as he runs again in 2026, promising a “stronger and tougher” defence. Critics, however, argue that the current leadership’s refusal to admit failures puts Israel at risk and demands a full review of national security protocols.
