October 7 survivors, bereaved families urge Eisenkot to reject Netanyahu unity government

A coalition of 710 individuals affected by the October 7 massacre, including former hostages, bereaved families, and survivors, have addressed opposition leaders, demanding they reject a unity government with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In an open letter, the signatories argue that the recent election results provide a mandate for political change, warning that collaboration with members of the previous government would legitimize them for the failures associated with the massacre.

The letter emphasizes that the 67 Knesset seats held by parties advocating for change were voted for by voters seeking a new government. The signatories, who include those directly affected by the October 7 tragedy, implore the opposition to establish a new government as soon as possible, without participating in legitimizing those responsible for the "massacre and destruction."

They caution that allowing the outgoing government to retain power would not only undermine recovery efforts but also compound the trauma endured by survivors and bereaved families. The signatories stress the need for a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures surrounding October 7 and urge the next government to prioritize this action.

They call on the opposition leaders to uphold their election promises, including replacing Netanyahu's government, initiating a state commission of inquiry, and restoring Israel's founding values. The letter urges party leaders to act together swiftly, stating that the responsibility for translating the election results into political change now lies with them.

The families assert that the people have clearly expressed their disapproval of the October 7 government and have given 67 mandates to the demand for change, prompting them to convene the Knesset and swear in a genuinely transformative government.