A state ceremony marking the Hebrew calendar anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, at Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, on October 16, 2025. (Photo by Alex Kolomoisky/POOL)
Officials had initially claimed such a probe could not proceed while Israel was at war, and later argued it would be biased against the government.
By Pesach Benson, TPS
President Isaac Herzog renewed his call for a full investigation into the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack, urging the government to establish a state commission of inquiry into what he described as a national “failure” to protect Israeli civilians.
Speaking at Mount Herzl in Jerusalem during a state ceremony for the civilian victims, Herzog said the tragedy demanded accountability and transparency.
“All that is left for me is to embrace you, to ask forgiveness on behalf of the State of Israel – for the failure and for not having defended you on that dreadful day,” he told bereaved families.
“We must investigate the disaster thoroughly, broadly, and comprehensively, and be worthy of your sacrifice.”
His remarks came a day after the High Court of Justice ruled there was “no real argument” against forming a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 attack, challenging the government’s continued opposition.
Officials had initially claimed such a probe could not proceed while Israel was at war, and later argued it would be biased against the government.
Herzog’s statement marks one of the strongest public endorsements yet for a formal investigation.
While several independent and military probes are already underway, families of victims and opposition lawmakers have demanded a state commission with full legal authority to summon witnesses and review classified material.
The president also linked the call for accountability to national unity, warning against renewed internal divisions.
“We must remember,” he said, “this people and this state are greater than any one of us.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted calls for a formal state commission of inquiry, calling it “politically biased.”
Critics accuse him of delaying and weakening the probe. Such commissions, led by senior Supreme Court justices, can summon witnesses, collect evidence, and make recommendations, though the government is not required to follow them.
Israel’s last commission, investigating a Mount Meron stampede that killed 45, held Netanyahu personally responsible in 2024.
Around 1,200 people were killed that day, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were abducted. The bodies of 21 more hostages remain in Gaza.
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