Political Candidate Lali Deri Faces Vile Attacks, Vows to Persevere

Lali Deri, mother of fallen soldier Saadia Yaakov Deri and a candidate for the "Am Yisrael" party, revealed on Wednesday the severe hateful messages she has received since entering politics. Deri, who is running in sixth place on the party's list, shared some of the abusive communications, which included political curses and insults. One message accused her of being a "Kapo-like" figure and a "denier of God and the right." Other messages escalated to deeply personal attacks, with one calling her a "despicable woman" and referencing her son, suggesting she "try to criticize Saadia, maybe you'll get a message." Another claimed she was "exploiting bereavement for personal celebrity promotion" and using her son's memory for her own advancement, even alleging she "knew he would die" and planned a "Cinderella story" for future gain.

In response to the onslaught, Deri posted a video addressing her detractors. "I have one message for all the cursers and haters: You will not defeat me," she stated. "You don't defeat me so quickly." Deri emphasized that the attacks have not deterred her from her political aspirations but have instead strengthened her resolve, stating, "And you know what? We entered politics precisely to change this discourse."