Democrats Petition to Disqualify Jewish Power Party from Knesset Elections

The Democratic Party has filed a dramatic petition with the Central Elections Committee demanding the disqualification of the Jewish Power party and its eight candidates from the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. The petition, filed by the party's legal counsel, argues that Jewish Power violates two key grounds for disqualification: undermining democracy and denying Israel's existence as a democratic state, and inciting racism.

The Democrats allege that Jewish Power members are using their political power and governmental authority to attack the rule of law and state institutions. This systematic activity, they claim, includes violating court orders, disregarding the Supreme Court's authority, harming national security, and inciting violent racism. The petition cites specific actions and statements by seven of the party's candidates, including public support for a convicted murderer of the Dawabsheh family, publishing the details of Arab citizens with calls to harm their livelihoods, and expressing solidarity with the banned Kach movement.

Omer Lubaton Granot, CEO of the Democratic Party, stated, "A democracy that wants to live must defend itself against anti-democratic forces that seek to use the tools it provides to destroy it from within." He emphasized the party's commitment to Israel as both Jewish and democratic and called on the Elections Committee to "draw a clear red line and immediately disqualify this racist and dangerous list."

The petition also addresses statements and actions by Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and MK Tali Gottlieb. It characterizes Ben-Gvir's activities not as isolated incidents but as part of a consistent and dangerous ideology, referencing his past convictions for supporting a terrorist organization and inciting racism. The petition further claims he currently abuses his authority, issues directives to the police regarding protesters, and uses appointments to intimidate oversight officials.

Regarding Tali Gottlieb, the petition asserts she abuses her parliamentary immunity to harm state institutions. It mentions her call to storm a military base and her statement that court orders do not apply to her. The petition also references her alleged disclosure of a Shin Bet agent's identity, which led to an indictment for security offenses related to revealing classified information. The Central Elections Committee will now consider these claims to decide on Jewish Power's eligibility to run in the elections.