Balad Chairman Expresses Regret Over Post-Oct 7 Remarks Amid Disqualification Bid

Sami Abou Shahadeh, chairman of the Balad party, has expressed regret for remarks he made following the October 7th Hamas attacks, stating he was unaware of the full extent of the atrocities at the time. This comes nearly three years after the events and follows a demand by Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir to disqualify Shahadeh from running for the Knesset (Israeli parliament).

Shahadeh criticized Ben-Gvir's disqualification request, calling it an "absurdity" and highlighting Ben-Gvir's own past convictions for incitement to racism and support for a terror organization. Shahadeh contrasted this with his own decades-long, non-violent political activism for freedom, justice, and equality for both peoples in the region.

Ben-Gvir responded sharply, accusing Shahadeh of lecturing him while having written an article on October 8th, the day after the attacks, calling Hamas's assault an "important historical event." Ben-Gvir stated that Shahadeh's place is not in the Knesset, alongside figures like Azmi Bishara and Basel Ghattas, and expressed pride in his own fight against Israel's enemies.

Ben-Gvir further urged the Central Elections Committee and the Supreme Court to accept their disqualification request, emphasizing his commitment to fighting those he considers enemies of Israel.