Yair Golan Petitions Supreme Court to Disqualify Otzma Yehudit Party

Yair Golan, head of the "Democrats" party, has filed a petition with the Israeli Supreme Court seeking to disqualify the "Otzma Yehudit" party and its leaders, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and MK Tali Gottlieb. The petition follows the Central Elections Committee's recent decision to reject requests to disqualify Otzma Yehudit. Golan described Ben-Gvir as a "racist Kahaneist criminal convicted of incitement to racism and supporting a terror organization," stating that the transformation of government offices and the Knesset into a refuge for criminals and a tool to undermine the rule of law is a "red line" the court must stop.

The Democrats' petition argues for disqualification based on two grounds stipulated in law: denying the existence of Israel as a democratic state and incitement to racism. The petition cites extensive evidence, including Ben-Gvir's alleged ongoing overstepping of authority and improper political interference in police work and investigations, Gottlieb's alleged involvement in a breach of a military base, and a charge against her for revealing the identity of a Shin Bet employee. It also points to public support for convicted terrorists and murderers, and Otzma Yehudit's official work plan, which reportedly includes numerical targets for forced emigration and a demand for a government ministry for transfer.

The Democrats emphasize that this legal action stems from their unwavering commitment to Israel's fundamental values and their role as "warriors for democracy." This move comes after Golan supported the disqualification of Sami Abu Shehadeh from the Joint List, a decision that drew criticism from some on the left. Golan maintained then that "true democratic partnership requires red lines" and that the same rule should apply to all.

Otzma Yehudit, led by Ben-Gvir, has criticized the disqualification attempts. Ben-Gvir accused former Prime Minister Bennett and current Prime Minister Lapid of hypocrisy, noting their past opposition to disqualifying Arab parties while supporting the disqualification of Otzma Yehudit. He vowed to continue his political activities despite these challenges.

The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the Democrats' petition in the coming days.