Ra'am MK States Hamas is Terror Group, Criticizes Shin Bet Chief

Member of Knesset Yoav Segalovich, representing the Ra'am party, declared that Hamas is a terrorist organization, distinguishing his stance from that of Ra'am leader Mansour Abbas. Segalovich also sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Shin Bet Chief David Zini. He stated his intention to work towards including Ra'am in a coalition led by Gadi Eisenkot.

Segalovich expressed concern over what he described as "demagoguery" and "incitement" surrounding the issue of loyalty, asserting that the focus should be on domestic affairs rather than foreign security. He accused Netanyahu and his allies of spreading fear, terror, and racism, urging the media to stop amplifying these "lies."

Furthermore, Segalovich attacked Shin Bet Chief David Zini, questioning his competence and suitability for the role. He criticized Zini for publicly announcing the need to investigate Arab authorities, stating that such actions are not standard investigative procedure and are "disturbing" in a democratic regime. Segalovich praised "honest people" within the Shin Bet for raising red flags about internal issues.

Addressing the possibility of joining a coalition, Segalovich clarified that his decision to join the Ra'am list was not for the current government or coalition but to challenge the political boundaries set by Netanyahu and the "extreme right" that exclude Arab parties. He emphasized his disagreement with such definitions and stated that his entry into the Ra'am list was independent of any coalition talks.

Regarding differences with other Ra'am members on the issue of Hamas, Segalovich stated, "How can one believe Mansour Abbas? The question of trust is not the issue here in my opinion. I am a member of the Ra'am list and Hamas is a terrorist organization." He noted that Abbas has stated the organization should not exist and armed groups should be dismantled. Segalovich also questioned the validity of applying similar scrutiny to religious parties as to Arab parties, asking if they are asked to sign the Declaration of Independence.

Segalovich confirmed that coalition negotiations are in their early stages and reiterated his commitment to making Ra'am part of a future coalition. He stated that he is not currently negotiating with anyone and that, to his knowledge, no formal negotiations are underway, with initial discussions reportedly focused on religious parties.