Central Elections Committee Bans Joint List from Knesset Race

The Knesset's Central Elections Committee voted on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, to disqualify the Joint List from participating in the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. The decision, made by a majority vote, came in response to petitions filed by right-wing parties, primarily the Likud party. These petitions alleged that the Joint List denies the Jewish nature of the state and supports hostile entities, claims that were reportedly supported by governing coalition parties and some opposition factions.

This disqualification follows similar decisions made by the committee during the same session, which also barred the United Arab List, the head of the Tajamoo party Sami Abu Shehadeh, and MK Ofer Cassif. The Joint List has rejected the committee's ruling, labeling it "political and vindictive." The party announced its intention to immediately appeal the decision to the Israeli Supreme Court.

It is important to note that decisions by the Central Elections Committee are not final and are automatically subject to review by the Supreme Court. Historically, the Supreme Court has frequently overturned disqualification rulings by the committee due to insufficient legal evidence.