Democrats Petition Israel's Supreme Court to Disqualify Otzma Yehudit Party

The Democratic Party has filed a petition with Israel's Supreme Court (Bagatz) demanding the disqualification of the Otzma Yehudit party and its leaders, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Knesset Member Tali Gottlieb, from participating in the upcoming Knesset elections. This move follows the Central Elections Committee's rejection of a similar request.

The petition, submitted by the party's legal counsel, argues for disqualification on two grounds: undermining Israel's existence as a democratic state and incitement to racism. The Democrats allege a systematic abuse of governmental power and ministries to harm the rule of law, separation of powers, and civil rights, citing previous positions taken by the Attorney General and State Prosecutor.

Specific allegations in the petition include Ben-Gvir's alleged political interference in police work, Gottlieb's involvement in incidents at the Bet Lid base, her indictment for revealing the identity of a Shin Bet employee, and her refusal to attend an investigation. The petition also references support and glorification of individuals convicted of nationalist crimes, and the publication of "Plan 710," which outlines goals for immigration and calls for a dedicated government ministry.

Democratic Party Chairman Yair Golan stated, "Itamar Ben-Gvir is a racist Kahanist and a criminal convicted of incitement to racism and supporting a terror organization. Turning government ministries and the Knesset into a refuge for offenses and a tool for trampling the rule of law is a red line the court must stop." The party noted its petition to the Supreme Court aligns with its stance at the Elections Committee, where they also opposed the disqualification of Arab parties.