Arab Israeli Party Official Calls for Unity After Candidate's Disqualification

Yousef Tatour, deputy secretary-general of the Arab political party Hadash, has called for solidarity within the party following the decision to disqualify Sami Abu Shehadeh from running in elections. Tatour views the disqualification as part of a political exclusion targeting Abu Shehadeh, the party, and its political agenda. He urged party members to approach the current phase with high levels of unity and responsibility, stating that such actions are part of a continuous effort over three decades to target Hadash, aiming to disqualify and politically pursue it.

Tatour emphasized that Hadash has always advocated for a platform of full equality, equal citizenship, and recognition of the national and collective rights of the Palestinian people. He asserted that the party has adhered to this project despite facing pressures, exclusion, and incitement, drawing its legitimacy from its supporters and its history of political, national, and democratic action, not from those involved in the disqualification.

The party's approach, according to Tatour, is based on peaceful political action linked to freedom, justice, equality, and the rights of the Palestinian people. He stated that attempts to disqualify and pursue the party will not lead it to change its positions or principles. He stressed the importance of rallying around Abu Shehadeh, whom he praised for his dedicated and responsible work for the party's project under difficult circumstances.

Tatour called on Hadash members to move forward as a unified political and organizational body, maintaining calm, steadfastness, and confidence. He believes the current confrontation extends beyond Abu Shehadeh's disqualification to the standing of the party's political project. Hadash announced it will continue legal and political efforts to counter the disqualification decision, viewing the broader battle as defending the political rights of the community it represents.

Tatour also criticized National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and supporters of the disqualification, noting that some who called for Hadash's disqualification have themselves faced accusations or stances related to violence. He accused others of promoting positions linked to the Gaza war, advocating for starving civilians, or inciting their killing. He concluded by stating the party will continue working to bring down the government and its political agenda, reaffirming its commitment to its political path and its support for Abu Shehadeh in the legal and political struggle.