Israeli state inquiry blames Netanyahu for 2021 Meron crush

An Israeli state inquiry found that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was personally responsible for the April 2021 Mount Meron crowd crush, in which 45 Jewish pilgrims were killed.

While the commission did not sanction Netanyahu, internal pressure from political rivals increased as the findings say there was "reasonable basis" to conclude the PM knew the site was dangerous.

“The report published today shows that the disaster could have been prevented. The writing was on the wall. It indicates criminal negligence, arrogance and disconnection, it indicates complete irresponsibility,” opposition leader Yair Lapid told reporters. “If Netanyahu were an ordinary citizen, he would stand trial today for causing death by negligence and go to prison.”

Lapid repeated his calls for Netanyahu to resign.

War cabinet minister Benny Gantz welcomed the findings of the commission, while other opposition parliamentarians said Netanyahu was responsible for the crush just as they find him responsible for the 7 October Hamas-led attack.