Activist Yosef Haddad Faces Backlash for Saudi Interview
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Yosef Haddad, a disabled IDF veteran, is criticized for his views on a two-state solution.
- The article defends Haddad, calling the criticism an act of ingratitude.
- Haddad has dedicated himself to advocating for Israel internationally.
- He was severely wounded fighting for Israel in the Second Lebanon War.
- The criticism comes from an interview given to a Saudi channel.
Yosef Haddad, who fought for Israel and was severely wounded, has dedicated himself to defending the country internationally. The article criticizes the use of his response in a Saudi channel interview against him, calling it an act of ingratitude towards someone who has a "blood pact" with Israel and labeling him a "Righteous Among the Nations." Haddad fought in the Second Lebanon War, sustaining serious injuries from a missile strike, and underwent a year of treatment and rehabilitation. He was recognized as a disabled IDF veteran and continues to cope with post-traumatic stress. Since then, he has tirelessly traveled the world, serving as a beacon of hope for Israel's often-struggling public diplomacy, especially during a period of unprecedented international isolation.
During an interview on a Saudi channel, Haddad was asked about his views on a Palestinian state. He responded that in the distant future, he supports a two-state solution, a position previously stated by the Israeli Prime Minister. The article references Dr. Mordechai Kedar, a right-wing explainer, who stated that to effectively market the country in foreign media, hypothetical questions must be answered. Kedar himself, a staunch opponent of a Palestinian state, has said that in the distant future, when terrorism ceases and peace prevails, he would support such a state.
The article condemns the pursuit of Haddad, a "Righteous Among the Nations" who has a true "blood pact" with Israel, based on an interview conducted for the country's security. It asserts that even during an election campaign, certain lines should not be crossed, and it is unacceptable for an Arab individual who dedicates his life and time to Israel to be treated so despicably. Haddad's words in the Saudi interview and elsewhere, which were meant to advocate for Israel, should be a testament to his merits, not a weapon used against him. The piece concludes by quoting scripture against those who secretly strike their neighbor.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
