Candidate's Old Video Supporting Two-State Solution Sparks Controversy

An old video of Yosef Haddad, a candidate for the 'Am Israel' party led by Ofer Vinter, has resurfaced and caused a stir online. The footage, filmed over five years ago, shows Haddad speaking favorably about the two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state. Haddad addressed the controversy on Saturday, claiming the circulated video is edited and taken out of context from an interview he gave years ago on Saudi television. He stated that this is an attempt to misrepresent him and his party's current positions.

Haddad, a Golani fighter born in Nazareth, explained that his views on the matter have evolved due to recent events. He cited the "Guardian of the Walls" operation, during which he witnessed Palestinian and Arab citizens rioting in mixed cities, as a turning point that made him realize a Palestinian state was not a viable solution. He added that the events of October 7th further solidified this understanding for him.

He clarified that the establishment of a Palestinian state is currently off the table and is explicitly against his party's principles. "A Palestinian state will not be established, and the principles of the party have made this clear. A Palestinian state will not be established in the lands of the Land of Israel," he stated, adding that the party aims to "return lands to the Land of Israel."

Haddad also refuted claims that he supports Palestinians, asserting that he has actively worked against the Palestinian narrative in recent years, even facing threats and attacks for his stance. He criticized those using the old video for political attacks, calling it a "low level" tactic and urging an end to "spin and lies."