Coalition Rift Emerges Over Bid to Disqualify 'The Democrats' Party

The Central Elections Committee for the 26th Knesset convened on Thursday for further discussions on disqualifying party lists, with a focus on Zionist parties. The committee rejected a request by the "Otzma Yehudit" party to disqualify "The Democrats," and also dismissed petitions against "Religious Zionism."

However, a dispute arose when Itamar Ben-Gvir's "Otzma Yehudit" decided to file a request to disqualify "The Democrats." This move met with opposition from coalition representatives on the committee. "This appeasing approach towards the left is what led to the failure of the judicial reform," stated a representative from "Otzma Yehudit."

Simcha Rothman of "Religious Zionism" urged "Otzma Yehudit" to withdraw its petition, calling it a "troll." He declared, "We will not participate in the vote." The Likud party also announced its non-participation and requested Ben-Gvir withdraw the bid.

"Otzma Yehudit" responded sharply to Rothman, asserting that the "appeasing approach towards the left is what led to the failure of the judicial reform." Another representative, Gottlieb, retorted to Rothman, "Simcha, it always seems to me that something is not quite right with you. We don't need your applause and points."

Ultimately, the petition to disqualify "The Democrats" was overwhelmingly rejected, with the coalition boycotting the vote.