Arab-Israeli Candidate Yosef Haddad Faces Legal Battles Amidst Election Campaign

Yosef Haddad, an Arab-Israeli former combatant in the Golani Brigade, is facing significant legal and political challenges as he campaigns for the Knesset with a new party he co-founded with former military secretary to Prime Minister Netanyahu, Ofer Winter. Haddad, who has gained a large following for his outspoken views, has been under intense scrutiny from various political factions and media outlets. His campaign has been marred by the circulation of past videos, unfavorable poll results, and public displays targeting party members, which led to the recent resignation of list member Devidi Ben Zion.

The legal front has become particularly contentious. Haddad, listed as the second candidate on the "Amcha Israel" (Your People Israel) slate, has requested a postponement of a court hearing scheduled for Sunday, citing his full commitment to the ongoing election campaign, which is just twelve days away. His lawyer, Ephraim Damari, argued that Haddad's electoral duties prevent him from dedicating the necessary attention to the legal proceedings. Damari also indicated Haddad's willingness to pursue mediation, as suggested by the court.

This request has met strong opposition from lawyer Ramzi Katilat, who represents Ibrahim Shurfi, the second defendant in the case. Katilat criticized the practice of public figures seeking to manipulate legal processes for political gain and called for the dismissal of the charges against Shurfi, a young man with no prior criminal record. Katilat asserted that Shurfi's prosecution is a "lifeline" for Haddad.

The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office has also rejected the postponement request. Lawyer Gal Austriac argued that the case, which has already seen numerous delays, is ready to move forward. The decision now rests with Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court Judge Yaron Gat.

Haddad's lawyer, Damari, defended the request as a minor, short-term delay due to electoral commitments, not an attempt to evade justice or seek preferential treatment. He characterized the criticism as an artificial attempt to generate headlines.

Haddad was indicted in August 2025 for reckless endangerment with a firearm following a road incident in July 2025. The indictment alleges that during a dispute with Shurfi, who was on a scooter, Haddad, while driving with a licensed handgun, cocked his weapon and threatened Shurfi. After Shurfi spat at him and drove away, Haddad fired a shot into the street. Shurfi faces charges of assault for spitting, and the trial has been ongoing for over a year.