Bereaved Families Clash with Security in Violent Knesset Altercation

The Knesset witnessed an unprecedented and an incredibly sad and distressing moment today as families of victims from the tragic events of October 7 clashed with security personnel while attempting to attend a parliamentary session. The session was convened to discuss the establishment of a state commission of inquiry into the attacks, a demand fervently supported by these bereaved families.

Members of the “October Council,” representing over 1,500 survivors and families affected by the October 7 tragedy, arrived at the Knesset with the intention of observing the debate from the visitors’ gallery. Despite prior coordination indicating that 40 members would attend, they were denied entry upon arrival. This denial led to a physical altercation at the base of the stairwell leading to the gallery, with guards pushing and restraining the protesters.

During the scuffle, Shimon Buskila, whose son Yarden was killed at the Nova festival on October 7, fainted and required medical attention. Visibly distressed, Buskila later expressed his anguish, questioning, “Is this how bereaved families are treated? With us on the floor? Is that our place?”

The October Council has been vocal in its demand for a comprehensive state inquiry to investigate the failures leading up to and during the October 7 attacks. At a press conference held earlier today, representatives emphasized the necessity of such an inquiry to prevent future tragedies. They drew parallels to the United States’ response to the 9/11 attacks, where a thorough investigation led to significant governmental reforms.

Rachel Goldberg-Polin, mother of slain hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, urged Israeli decision-makers to emulate the American approach, stating that a state investigation committee could “step forward towards the light… that only clarity can provide.”

The incident has sparked a political outcry. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid confronted Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana during the session, demanding that the families be granted access. Ohana’s response was reportedly non-committal, stating, “I’m checking.”

In the aftermath, the October Council called for Ohana’s resignation, holding him responsible for the violent clash. They condemned the use of force against bereaved families and relatives of hostages, labeling it as unacceptable and demanding accountability.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Knesset amid the turmoil, reiterating the importance of investigating the events of October 7. However, he expressed reservations about a court-led probe, suggesting potential biases and emphasizing the need to avoid “drilling holes in the national ship” during ongoing conflicts.