Feiglin and Ben-Gvir Clash Over Disqualification of Arab Candidates

Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party, has publicly opposed the disqualification of Arab candidates and lists from participating in elections, arguing it violates fundamental democratic principles. He stated that any illegal actions or statements by a candidate should be handled through the criminal justice system, not by revoking their political rights. Feiglin cited his own past legal issues, suggesting that even those convicted of incitement or sedition should retain the right to run for office, albeit potentially from prison.

Feiglin directly addressed National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accusing him of falling into a trap set by the system he claims to fight. Feiglin reiterated that individuals like Sami Abu Shehadeh, who allegedly incite, betray, or support the enemy during wartime, should face criminal prosecution and imprisonment, but their right to run for election should not be used as punishment.

Ben-Gvir, chairman of the Otzma Yehudit party, strongly rejected Feiglin's position. He asserted that anyone supporting the October 7th massacre or the murder of IDF soldiers, like Abu Shehadeh, must be disqualified and removed from the Knesset. Ben-Gvir emphasized the need for Israel to expel all terror supporters from parliament to protect itself.

The debate comes ahead of a High Court of Justice hearing scheduled for Thursday regarding the disqualification of Sami Abu Shehadeh, head of the Balad party. The Central Elections Committee had previously disqualified Abu Shehadeh, Ofer Cassif, Ra'am, and the Joint List, while petitions to disqualify Otzma Yehudit, Religious Zionism, Zehut, and HaDemocratim were rejected.