Israeli Lawmaker Defends Arab Party's Knesset Run, Criticizes Ban Attempt

Member of Knesset (MK) Chili Tropper stated on Wednesday that the attempt by Yisrael Beiteinu and Avigdor Lieberman to disqualify the Ra'am party and its leader, Mansour Abbas, from running in elections is a mistake. Speaking on 103fm radio, Tropper emphasized that the tool of disqualifying a list from running in elections should be used with caution, suggesting that such actions can sometimes cross into political territory.

However, Tropper drew a distinction regarding the disqualification of Sami Abu Shehadeh, leader of the Balad party, stating that his party supports this move. He explained that there is a difference between Ra'am's legitimacy to be elected to the Knesset and the possibility of it joining a government led by his party. "I have no way to defend Ra'am's position, and we have spoken out against it," Tropper said.

Tropper outlined four principles for the next government, as defined by Gadi Eisenkot: the government must be established solely with Zionist votes, aiming for the broadest possible Zionist coalition. A key principle for any party seeking to be part of such a government is agreement on the destruction of Hamas.

Additionally, Tropper commented on recent polls, noting that the Likud party is at a low point not seen since October 7th. He acknowledged that his party faces significant work to win the upcoming elections.