Israel election appeals Supreme Court hears parties

Oct 1

RTVE reports that Israel's Supreme Court heard arguments on October 1 from the two Arab parties excluded by the elections committee. It attributes the disqualification requests to Netanyahu's party and Ben-Gvir's allies and summarizes allegations of support for terrorism or rejection of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. Dozens of demonstrators outside ask the judges to reverse the committee decision. The court's decision is expected in coming days and has not been announced.

At a nine-judge Supreme Court eligibility hearing, Sami Abu Shehadeh is challenged over his post-October 7 article and characterization of Hamas. He opposes the terrorist acts and expresses regret. Chief Justice Yitzhak Amit says exclusion appears likely and suggests withdrawal rather than a reasoned ruling; opposing lawyers and representatives dispute the implications. Kan's later return explains the possible procedural outcomes and Sunday deadline. No final withdrawal or judicial ruling has occurred in the broadcast. RTVE's same-day overview describes arguments from the excluded Arab parties and demonstrations seeking reversal, with the outcome still pending. This is one October 1 eligibility hearing; the full detailed Kan account and separate RTVE report retain their own ranges and attribution.