Government Deems Supreme Court’s Call for Investigation Committee “Extreme Act”

Background on October 7 Incident

In the aftermath of the tragic events on October 7, which resulted in the loss of 1,163 lives, the Israeli government is responding to petitions for a state inquiry. The extreme gravity of this incident has drawn widespread calls for thorough investigations into the failings that contributed to the crisis.

Government’s Position

In its formal response to the Israeli Supreme Court (Bagatz), the government characterized the possibility of the court mandating a state inquiry committee as an “extreme act” lacking legal foundation. The response stated, “Transforming the contingent order into a permanent start would shatter the principle of separation of powers, and it is not within the court’s authority.” The government further elaborated that such a judicial directive for a state inquiry is unprecedented.

Legislative Efforts for Inquiry Committee

While the government opposes a court-ordered commission, it indicated that it is actively considering a legislative path to establish a national inquiry committee regarding the events of October 7. This committee’s purpose would be to ensure an in-depth, independent investigation into the massacre, the onset of war, and the circumstances surrounding these events.

According to the government, its proposal suggests that the creation and composition of this committee would occur through broad consensus or an equitable representation between coalition and opposition members. This forthcoming committee would include experts from security, academia, and law, with bereaved parents serving as observers.

Guaranteeing Public Trust

The government’s plan aims to ensure that the authority of the national inquiry committee complies fully with the Inquiry Committees Law. It emphasizes that establishing this committee in a manner that engenders public trust across the political spectrum is a priority.

To summarize, the government is requesting the Supreme Court to reject the petitions for a judicially mandated inquiry, asserting that its proposed legislative action will adequately address the need for accountability and thorough investigation into the tragic incidents of October 7.