Knesset Candidate Lali Darai Vows Not to Cede Israeli Land

Lali Darai, a candidate for Knesset with the "Amcha Yisrael" (Your People Israel) party, stated in a podcast interview that she "will not give up an inch of Israeli land." Darai, who immigrated to Israel alone at age 15 in 1990, shared her personal journey and views on security and national identity.

Darai described her decision to immigrate as a desire to be actively involved in her people's life, recalling a poster of the Western Wall in her Paris home that inspired her to move to Israel. She recounted her challenging arrival just before the Gulf War, choosing to stay and endure hardships rather than return home, emphasizing her commitment to sharing both the good and bad times in Israel.

Discussing security, Darai noted that Israelis are conditioned to defend themselves, citing instances of civilians intervening in attacks. She also highlighted the Israeli youth's dedication to the collective good, comparing it to the IDF's ethos where commanders lead from the front. Darai explained her past decision to settle in Beit El and later in Ali, settlements beyond the Green Line, as a measure to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state, which she views as a security threat.

Responding to labels like "messianic," Darai quoted David Ben-Gurion's stance on territorial price for attacks, aligning herself with his principles. She spoke of her son, Saadia, who was serving in the IDF on October 7th, and how his death has fueled her resolve to continue his mission and refuse to be a victim.

Darai also addressed national unity, pointing to the presence of Sigal Kraunik, widow of the security coordinator of Kibbutz Be'eri, on her list, and referencing Yocheved Lifshitz as examples of people from different backgrounds united by shared threats. She asserted that while ideological differences exist, they should not divide Israelis when facing external enemies. Darai plans to advocate for unity, not uniformity, in the Knesset, believing most Israelis desire fraternity and a return to Zionist ideals over cynicism.

Regarding her political platform, Darai stressed the need to rethink the citizen-state relationship, emphasizing personal responsibility and contribution, whether through military or national service. She declared the two-state solution irrelevant, stating that Israeli society has shifted rightward post-October 7th and that Arab nations also recognize the potential for a Palestinian state to fall under Iranian or Muslim Brotherhood control. Darai aims for her party to be a surprise in the upcoming elections, offering a political home for right-wing voters disillusioned with the current coalition, and envisions rebuilding Israel into a "paradise" after the events of October 7th.