Old Statements by Yosef Haddad on Palestinian Statehood Spark Israeli Right-Wing Controversy

Activists on the Israeli right have recirculated an old interview clip featuring Yosef Haddad, the second-ranked candidate for the "Amcha Israel" party led by Ofer Winter. In the interview, Haddad expressed his support for the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, a stance that has drawn criticism from right-wing figures and activists. Haddad stated that the "final solution" to the conflict is "the state of Israel alongside the state of Palestine," believing this could pave the way for peace.

Haddad also discussed his vision for the role of Arab citizens in Israel, suggesting that improving their societal conditions and enabling their advancement in government institutions would empower them to advocate for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. He argued that when Arab citizens are integral to decision-making, they can contribute to achieving peace, emphasizing his desire for them to be "proud to be Arabs and proud to be Israelis."

The resurfaced remarks have led to backlash from some right-wing activists who previously supported Haddad. Critics argue his past positions on a Palestinian state contradict his current political platform within Winter's party, with some deeming him "not Zionist enough."

Moshe Feiglin, head of the "Hadoot" party, criticized the political alliance between Winter and Haddad, revealing he had previously rejected Haddad for his own party, questioning Haddad's loyalty to Israel. Feiglin also criticized Winter for including Haddad on his list.

Adding to the controversy, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich attacked Winter's party following the reposting of Haddad's statements, warning that selecting candidates without thorough vetting carries risks beyond electoral thresholds. Winter had placed Haddad second on his party's list for upcoming elections, a decision that had already generated debate within the Israeli right regarding the party's composition and candidates.