Son of Arab Israeli Politician Accepts Party's Decision to Suspend Father's Candidacy

Bassel Faraj, son of Arab Israeli politician Jafar Faraj, stated that his family accepts the decision by the Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (DFPE) to suspend his father's candidacy. He emphasized that the decision was made by the DFPE council, which had previously elected Jafar Faraj. Bassel Faraj expressed gratitude for the decision, noting that his family had been subjected to a campaign of defamation and slander in the preceding weeks, stating, "I do not believe the Knesset seat is worth defaming an entire family and a person who has given 40 years of his life." He asserted that any decision made by the DFPE council is also the family's decision.

Addressing concerns about a potential split within the DFPE, Bassel Faraj affirmed the party's unity, stating, "There is no fear of the Front splitting. The Front is united, and the Front is for all people, and so it will remain." He added that the party remains united in its efforts to ensure the success of the joint list in the upcoming elections.

Bassel Faraj indicated that his family needs rest after a difficult period, mentioning that social media networks played a role in countering the smear campaign, with approximately 90% of the Arab community aware of the events and those behind them. He noted that his father has been released from the hospital and that the family has suffered for nearly four months. He concluded by stating that his father will continue to be actively involved in the election campaign, playing a central role.

He also called for accountability if deemed necessary, but stressed the importance of moving forward united to ensure the success of the joint list in the upcoming elections.