Tel aviv: Israeli opposition lawmaker Gilad Kariv has issued a strong call for the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labeling it as an 'existential need for Israeli society.' Kariv, a member of the Democrats party, expressed his demands on the US social media platform X, criticizing Netanyahu's handling of the army's investigations related to the events of October 7, 2023.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kariv accused Netanyahu of avoiding visits to the kibbutzim near Gaza for months following the October 7 incident and neglecting to address the Israeli army's investigations into the events of that day. He further alleged that Netanyahu has consistently 'abandoned' Israel's security and demonstrated 'complete incompetence' in managing national security matters.

Kariv emphasized that Netanyahu should not be entrusted with making decisions about the nation's future, asserting that his removal is crucial for the well-being of Israeli society. The opposition parties, along with substantial segments of the Israeli public, have been advocating for a state commission of inquiry to investigate the failures related to the October 7 Hamas attack. However, Netanyahu's government has dismissed this mechanism, opting instead for a politically appointed panel.

The political climate in Israel is tense as the Knesset elections approach on October 27, with opinion polls indicating a decline in support for Netanyahu and his Likud party. Additionally, Netanyahu is embroiled in an ongoing corruption trial and faces charges from the International Criminal Court concerning accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip.

The conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 73,000 people since October 2023, with hostilities persisting despite a US-sponsored ceasefire.