Israel on Wednesday marked the third anniversary of the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 kidnappings, making it the deadliest single-day incident in the nation’s history. As the conflict transitions into its fourth year, memorial events were interspersed with widespread protests, reflecting lingering uncertainties regarding the attack and its aftermath.

The assault, which involved air, land, and sea operations by Hamas, significantly impacted Israel’s reputation for intelligence and technological prowess. Following the attack, the Israeli government launched an extensive military operation in Gaza, which, according to reports, has resulted in over 74,200 casualties in the region.

Memorial events commenced at 6:29 am, the exact time the attack took place three years ago. Survivors and the families of those lost gathered at Kibbutz Re’im, where the Nova music festival was attacked, leading to the deaths of 378 individuals and the abduction of 44 hostages to Gaza.

Protests Against Government Accountability

While memorial services were being observed, protests arose against the government’s handling of the incident and its refusal to establish an independent inquiry into the attack. A gathering near the Knesset featured Gal Goren, who lost his parents, Avner and Maya, in the attack. He addressed the crowd, expressing concerns over the feelings of guilt and regret surrounding the events of that day.

Demonstrations featured poignant imagery, including the painting of a fountain in Dizengoff Square red, symbolising the bloodshed. Outside the Knesset, activists showcased charred vehicles that were once owned by victims of the Nova festival incident. Protests also took place near the residences of prominent politicians.

These include Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, as demonstrators called for accountability. Members of the Young Democrats party participated in a demonstration at Netanyahu’s residence at 6:29 am, asserting their intent to ensure that the Prime Minister acknowledges the tragic anniversary. The protest critiqued the delayed response to intelligence received on that fateful morning.

Ongoing Questions Amid Political Tensions

As the conflict persists, there is a heightened sense of inquiry regarding Hamas, including why it has not been disarmed, its future role in Gaza, and the territorial governance issues that remain unresolved. Internal divisions have intensified in Israel, driven by war fatigue, financial instability, personal losses, and continuing debates regarding the war’s objectives.

The situation has also sparked discussions on what is termed “burden sharing”. Members of the army and those contributing economically have raised concerns over resource allocation favouring the ultra-Orthodox community, who are often perceived to be avoiding military service while influencing political decisions.

With upcoming general elections scheduled for October 27, these issues have become focal points for opposition campaigns. Leaders from the anti-Netanyahu coalition have pledged to address these disparities should they gain power. Nonetheless, Netanyahu relies on the ultra-Orthodox bloc as a long-standing political ally, making it complicated to alter their relationship significantly.

Amid heightened tensions, the backdrop of public discontent remains. The protests against the draft-averse ultra-Orthodox communities and confrontations between right-wing settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank have also drawn international scrutiny. Even before the October 7 attacks, public dissatisfaction had stemmed from ongoing protests against judicial reforms perceived as undermining judicial independence.

As Israel reflects on the third anniversary of the tragic event, the dual nature of commemorations and protests illustrates the unresolved issues surrounding the attack, the government’s response, and the overarching political landscape, with opposition figures like Gadi Eisenkot gaining traction by promising to reconcile and revitalise the nation.

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