Ben-Gvir Argues for Knesset Candidate's Disqualification at Supreme Court

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir appeared at the Supreme Court on Tuesday to argue for the disqualification of Sami Abu Shehadeh, a candidate for the Knesset (Israeli parliament), from running in elections. Ben-Gvir stated he was representing the victims of the October 7th Hamas attacks, asserting that Abu Shehadeh supported the massacre and has not condemned terrorism.

Ben-Gvir contended that Abu Shehadeh's past statements and explanations to the Elections Committee indicate support for violence against soldiers, even if he claims to oppose civilian deaths. "He must be disqualified. If this is not disqualification, then we can close up shop," Ben-Gvir declared, emphasizing that Abu Shehadeh's place is in prison, not the Knesset.

The minister also broadened his argument to include other members of Arab political factions, such as Hadash, Ra'am, and the Joint List, suggesting they too should be disqualified. However, he focused on Abu Shehadeh as the most clear-cut case, citing his alleged support for terrorism and the October 7th attacks.

Ben-Gvir expressed hope that the Supreme Court justices would heed the will of the Israeli people and rule in favor of disqualification. He concluded by lamenting that his party, Otzma Yehudit, had to bring this case, implying it should have been obvious.

The article does not specify the outcome of the hearing or the court's decision.