Thousands of Israelis flooded Tel Aviv's Hostages Square on Saturday, demanding an end to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rule and an independent inquiry into the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, just three days before a crucial general election.

Crowds waved Israeli flags and carried protest signs, as opposition leaders joined former hostages and families of October 7 victims in calling for political change and government accountability.

With Israelis heading to the polls on October 27, protesters urged voters not to miss their chance to change the country's leadership.

"It's important to come and fight until the last minute to show that we are here. We cannot rest and think that the elections being here means we can throw our hands up," stressed proponent Tzofnat Mor. 

Mor accused Netanyahu of failing Israel on security, diplomacy and social issues, arguing that the October 7 attack had exposed the government's shortcomings.

"I think October 7th proved to all of us that he failed, and the last four years have only deteriorated our situation socially, security-wise, and diplomatically. And enough is enough – it's time for a change."

Another protester, Eli Blair declared that Netanyahu's time in power was over, insisting Israelis were ready for a fresh start.

"Netanyahu is leading an extremist government, such that today he cannot travel anywhere in the world. Everyone sees him as a child killer. He is entangled in seven places of war, and he doesn't have a penny. The era of Bibi, King of Israel, is over. The people of Israel have other priorities. They want to turn over a new leaf."

Protesters were demanding more than a change of government. They also called for a state commission of inquiry into the security failures surrounding October 7, accusing Netanyahu's administration of resisting accountability.

Blair said families affected by the attack deserved answers, accusing the government of trying to hide its responsibility.

"We come to support the hostage families who are demanding something elementary; an election committee and a state commission of inquiry to investigate all the atrocities that the Israeli government brought upon us are ashamed of, don't want people talking about, and are hiding."

Netanyahu has rejected calls for a state commission of inquiry appointed through the judiciary, arguing that it would be biased against his government. Opposition parties have pledged to establish one if they win power.

With the election approaching, protesters also warned that another inconclusive result could leave Israel facing further political uncertainty.

Israelis will elect a new 120-seat Knesset on Tuesday, with 61 seats needed for a majority. The vote will determine whether Netanyahu can secure another term or opposition parties can form an alternative coalition.

Security, the handling of the conflicts since October 7, 2023, and the government's record are among the key election issues. Recent polls suggest a closely contested race, with neither political bloc assured of the 61 seats needed to form a government.