Israeli Politics Shifts: Pro-Israel Advocate Haddad Becomes Target as Election Looms

Yoseph Haddad, an Arab-Israeli former Golani Brigade fighter known for his extensive pro-Israel advocacy both domestically and internationally, has become a political target for right-wing parties, including Likud and Religious Zionism, as the upcoming elections approach. This shift is notable because Haddad was praised by these same parties, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, just two months prior.

In July, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot drew criticism from the right for comparing Haddad to Mansour Abbas, leader of the United Arab List. Netanyahu himself released a video against Eisenkot, but in doing so, he also lauded Haddad. The article notes that journalist Raviv Drucker also faced backlash for referring to Haddad as a "pet Arab."

However, with the election campaign underway, Likud and Religious Zionism have changed their stance. Likud has attacked Haddad and the leader of his new party, Ofer Winter, alleging they are aligned with Avigdor Lieberman, despite denials. Bezalel Smotrich, leader of Religious Zionism, resurfaced an old video of Haddad expressing support for a Palestinian state to criticize him and his party, questioning Haddad's contribution to Israel's global advocacy.

Haddad has publicly stated that his years of work for Israel are the true proof of his identity, not a "timed and distorted campaign." He also pointed out that Netanyahu himself has held past positions supporting a Palestinian state, suggesting that changing views should be accepted. The article criticizes the political expediency that turns a national asset into an electoral threat simply because he might take votes, arguing that political criticism is different from attempting to erase years of contribution.

The author questions the rapid reversal by Likud and the criticism from Smotrich, contrasting it with their past praise for Haddad. The piece suggests that the political pressure is evident and that while Haddad's political stances or his party's potential coalition choices can be legitimately debated, his past advocacy should not be dismissed due to his electoral challenge.