Former 'Israeli' captives demand state investigation into October 7

•  Former 'Israeli' captives and families demand a formal state investigation into the Oct. 7, 2023 events.
• The group accuses the government of delays and cover-ups in handling the captive file.

Twenty two former 'Israeli' captives held in Gaza, along with dozens of their relatives, have called on the 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to establish an official government investigation committee to examine the circumstances surrounding their captivity.

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The demand, first reported by Haaretz, reflects growing anger over what the group describes as the government’s failure to take responsibility for the events of Oct. 7, 2023 and their aftermath.

Ultimatum to the prime minister

In a letter addressed to Netanyahu, the former captives issued a direct ultimatum.

“Either form an official investigation committee or step down from your position”, the letter said.

The signatories accused the government of “evasions, delays, and cover-ups”, arguing that only a formal and independent inquiry could uncover the full truth behind the failures that led to their capture and prolonged detention.

Scope of the proposed inquiry

The investigation committee should examine all aspects of the October 7 attack and its consequences, according to the letter.

These include how and why captives were taken by Hamas, decisions made by 'Israeli' political and security leaders before, during, and after the attack, and failures in intelligence, preparedness, and operational response.

The group also called for scrutiny of how negotiations, rescue attempts, and the ongoing management of the captive file have been handled since October 7.

Rejection of limited reviews

The former captives rejected political or partial inquiries, warning they wouldn't deliver accountability.

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“No political committee will hide the truth”, the letter said. “Only a full government investigation committee can reveal the series of failures, hold leaders accountable, and shed light on the decisions that determined people’s fates”.

Failures seen as ongoing

The letter stressed that responsibility doesn't end with the events of October 7.

The signatories said failures continue in the government’s handling of captives and their families, adding that delays in establishing an investigation only deepen public mistrust.

“It is time for the government to fear the people, not the truth”, the letter said.

The call adds to mounting domestic pressure on Netanyahu’s government to authorize a state investigation into the October 7 event, an issue that has become increasingly central to 'Israel’s' political and public debate.