Israeli opposition seeks to bar Ben-Gvir’s party from Knesset election

Israel’s opposition Democrats party asked the Central Elections Committee on Monday to disqualify the Jewish Power party, led by extremist National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, from the Oct. 27 general election, citing incitement to racism, Anadolu reports.

The petition also accused the party of undermining democracy, the rule of law and judicial authority, according to Israel’s Channel 12.

The Democrats said Kahanist lawmakers had used political power and parliamentary immunity to defy court orders, challenge the Supreme Court’s authority and incite “violent racism.”

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The committee has yet to rule on the request.

Ben-Gvir rejected the move and accused Yair Golan’s Democrats of being “anti-Semitic” and “anti-Israel.”

The petition comes days after Israeli parties filed their candidate lists for the election.

A total of 38 lists are registered to contest the 120-seat Knesset, though recent polls suggest around 13 could win seats.

Any decision to disqualify a candidate or list is subject to review by Israel’s Supreme Court.

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