Otzma Yehudit Seeks to Submit New Evidence Against Balad MK in Disqualification Case

The Otzma Yehudit party is requesting to submit new evidence to the Supreme Court against Sami Abu Shehadeh, chairman of the Balad party, in a bid to disqualify him. The evidence consists of a video from December 2023 where Abu Shehadeh, interviewed by Qatar's Al-Arabi channel, described the "steadfast resistance" in Gaza as "legendary."

Abu Shehadeh stated in the interview, "What is happening in Gaza in terms of steadfast resistance is almost legendary. I don't know of a similar case in military history, in any period." He further questioned how "racist Israeli society" copes with the ongoing war, the government's failure to provide convincing answers on hostages and military decision-making, and the "steadfastness of the resistance in Gaza."

He also cited an article published in Haaretz, claiming that the resistance surprised Israel not only in its attack but also in its defense and ability to maintain its leadership and the connection between leadership and fighters, calling this defense system "almost legendary."

Otzma Yehudit's request is considered unusual because the legal process against Abu Shehadeh has already concluded at the Central Elections Committee. Legal experts anticipate that the Supreme Court will likely reject the request, as it is not customary to introduce new evidence at this stage of proceedings, especially after the hearing has already been scheduled.

Balad has not yet responded to requests for comment.