National Security Minister Ben-Gvir Demands Jail Time for Arab Lawmaker

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed optimism following a hearing regarding the potential disqualification of Arab lawmaker Sami Abu Shehadeh from the Knesset, believing a majority of judges will vote to disqualify him. However, Ben-Gvir stated that disqualification is only the first step, asserting that Abu Shehadeh "should be in jail" due to his alleged statements. Ben-Gvir criticized state bodies, including the Shin Bet and the Attorney General's office, for failing to uncover what he described as "golden evidence" against Abu Shehadeh, which was reportedly found by his own legislative advisor.

Ben-Gvir suggested that the failure to find the material was not due to negligence but a lack of will to disqualify individuals like Abu Shehadeh, whom he accused of providing "the front axis of terror" to the Knesset. He insisted that Abu Shehadeh must not be allowed to serve in parliament, citing the recent Hamas attacks. Ben-Gvir also called for the disqualification of Arab lawmaker Ahmad Tibi, accusing him of playing a game at Israel's expense and suggesting Tibi also belongs in jail.

Ben-Gvir dismissed claims that the disqualification efforts are aimed at suppressing Arab voter turnout to aid the right-wing government. He expressed hope that if Tali Gottlieb becomes Justice Minister, the legal system's approach to such cases will change, characterizing her as someone who "comes to work, and comes not only to talk, but also to do."