An estimated 150,000 people gathered in Tel Aviv’s Rabin Square on Saturday to commemorate 30 years since the assassination of former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. The solemn event recalled Rabin’s legacy of peace and leadership responsibility amid current political divisions in Israel.

Former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot emphasized the need for responsible leadership, drawing applause, while opposition leader Yair Lapid lamented that the three bullets that killed Rabin symbolized an attack not just on a leader but on an idea—peace. Speakers warned that extremist voices that fueled Rabin’s murder remain influential today, fueling division and hatred.

The assassination by right-wing extremist Yigal Amir followed a smear campaign against Rabin amid peace talks in the 1990s, marking a turning point that weakened the Oslo peace process. Current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Rabin’s political rival, has been criticized for rhetoric that some say contributed to a polarizing climate.

The rally featured performances, moments of silence timed to Rabin’s murder, and calls to revive his vision of a peaceful, united Israel. The event underscored the ongoing challenges to Israeli democracy and peace efforts.

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