Arab-Jewish Party Leaders Criticize Israeli Politics, War Conduct

Members of the Joint List party, including MK Ofer Cassif and Orly Noy, expressed strong criticism of Israel's political landscape and its military actions during a public gathering in Jerusalem. Cassif, a Jewish member of the party, stated that the upcoming elections are predetermined and that he and other Arab-Israeli politicians face disqualification. He referenced a recent discussion about disqualifying Sami Abu Shehadeh, a lawyer representing the Joint List, and expressed pessimism about the judicial review process.

Noy, the first Jewish member from the Balad faction of the Joint List, echoed Cassif's concerns, highlighting the party's marginalization from government discussions and public perception. She noted the stark contrast between the right-wing's discourse on expelling Gazan residents and the Joint List's focus on peace and equality, which she feels is currently perceived as irrelevant.

Cassif elaborated on the reasons for disqualification, comparing the relevant clause in election law to a joke about excluding racists and Jews, arguing it is now used to silence those advocating for democracy and equality. He accused the current government of implementing a plan for annexation without granting rights to residents, equating the actions in Gaza to genocide and the West Bank to ethnic cleansing, with settlers acting as proxies. He also spoke of ethnic cleansing in the Negev and compared certain actions to the Holocaust.

Noy criticized the broader Israeli political discourse, stating that while the right focuses on forgetting October 7th and the center focuses on forgetting the events since, the Joint List's role is to advocate for change. She argued that the rise of Kahanism and Ben-Gvir represents an elite shift, with the new elite disregarding the military if it doesn't serve their interests. She also critiqued centrist and right-wing politicians for their militaristic approaches, even those who claim to be part of the opposition.

Both Cassif and Noy emphasized their commitment to preventing Benjamin Netanyahu from forming another government and to opposing his political path. They believe their party offers the only genuine alternative to Netanyahu's policies, advocating for a non-violent, egalitarian society. Noy stressed the importance of a united front against what she termed 'fascism,' urging citizens to join this movement, which she believes is essential for their own future and involves disrupting the current system.