The Knesset approved in its first reading on Monday a bill seeking to establish a politically appointed investigative committee to examine government shortcomings related to the October 7 massacre. The legislation, proposed by Likud MK Ariel Kaliner, passed unanimously with 59 votes in favor, while the opposition boycotted the vote, maintaining their refusal to participate.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the bill's advancement, characterizing the proposed inquiry as a "sham" aimed at obscuring accountability and blocking a thorough investigation into what he described as the gravest tragedy to affect the Jewish people since World War II.

The legislation marks a significant development nearly three years after the October 7 incident, a delay attributed to ongoing disputes regarding the nature and leadership of the inquiry. Unlike the traditional independent state commissions of inquiry, which are typically overseen by Israel’s Supreme Court, the proposed bill calls for a politically appointed committee. Kaliner defended this approach, asserting to the Knesset plenum that only a commission composed through an equitable appointment process could both seek the truth and restore public confidence.

The bill’s progression takes place amid a broader drive by the governing coalition to advance key legislative initiatives during its final Knesset session before anticipated elections. The Knesset is expected to be dissolved around mid-July, making it unlikely that the bill will complete the remaining readings required for full enactment in this term.

Nevertheless, securing approval in the first reading lays groundwork for future deliberations, enabling the incoming Knesset to resume efforts to formalize the investigative committee. The bill remains a focal point of debate over how Israel should address accountability and oversight in response to the massacre’s fallout.