New Joint List Candidates Linked to Terrorists, Anti-Israel Stances

The Joint List, an Arab political alliance in Israel, is facing scrutiny over the past public records of some of its new candidates, which include alleged support for terrorists and strong anti-Israel rhetoric. The party, led by MK Ahmad Tibi, has vowed to work towards toppling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government, potentially making them a significant factor in the opposition bloc.

Among the controversial figures is Bakar Aouda, listed fifth on the slate, who reportedly participated in an event honoring Karim Younis, an Arab Israeli convicted of murdering IDF soldier Avi Bromberg. Another candidate, Hassan Nassasra, is said to have praised Maher Younis, Karim Younis's accomplice in the murder, after his death, though it is claimed Nassasra was unaware of his terrorist background. Aouda also reportedly wrote about Fawzi Nimer, an Arab Israeli who led a cell responsible for deadly attacks in the 1970s, referring to him as a "fighter" and "hero of the Palestinian people."

Newcomer Faten Ghattas, who replaced a resigned member, is described as an ideological communist. Ghattas has published articles asserting that Israel is a colonial invention established by the British to control Arab wealth. She also claims that wealthy American Jews aided Israel's creation for financial gain at the expense of Jewish workers and that Israel uses Palestinians as a testing ground for weapons sales.

These new candidates' alleged stances mirror previous positions within the Joint List, characterized by sympathy for terrorists and sharp criticism of Israel and Zionism. Despite these controversies, opposition parties are reportedly seeking the alliance's support.