MK Abou Shahadeh Defends Peaceful Stance Amid Knesset Ouster Bid

Sami Abou Shahadeh, a member of the Knesset, has responded to efforts by Itamar Ben-Gvir to have him removed from parliament, calling the move "absurd." Abou Shahadeh stated that Ben-Gvir's attempt to disqualify him, despite decades of peaceful political activism for Palestinian rights, justice, and equality for both peoples, is baseless. He contrasted his own record with Ben-Gvir's, citing convictions for inciting racism and supporting a terrorist organization, and what he described as Ben-Gvir's long association with racist policies.

Abou Shahadeh reiterated his opposition to actions he termed "crimes" in Gaza, which he has expressed since October 7th through various media. He clarified that while he opposes the atrocities of October 7th against Israelis and the subsequent actions against Gazans, his humanitarian stance is based on a rejection of harm to any individual, Palestinian or Israeli. He emphasized that his opposition to civilian harm, whether Israeli or Palestinian, stems from the same humanitarian and ethical principles.

He firmly asserted that he has never called for violence, nor has he supported or justified the events of October 7th. Abou Shahadeh stressed that his opposition to the occupation and war, and his support for Palestinian rights, do not equate to endorsing violence or armed struggle. He maintained that his political path has consistently been one of peaceful, public, and political struggle for freedom, justice, and equality, prioritizing human life and dignity.

Abou Shahadeh concluded by affirming his commitment to this lifelong path, especially amidst the ongoing debate surrounding the proposal to disqualify him from running for the Knesset.