Israeli Lawmakers Seek Expulsion of Ayman Odeh Over Pro-Gaza Remarks

Jerusalem: Seventy members of the Israeli Knesset have signed a petition calling for the expulsion of Arab lawmaker Ayman Odeh, head of the Hadash-Ta'al alliance, following his recent remarks expressing solidarity with Gaza and Palestinian detainees. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the petition was initiated by Likud MK Avichai Boaron, who accused Odeh of "crossing red lines" during a speech at a pro-Gaza rally last Saturday. Odeh had stated that 'Gaza will prevail over war, destruction, and occupation,' and that 'the Palestinian people will triumph.' Boaron stated that the petition reflects broad outrage across party lines, describing Odeh's comments as 'an attack on the Israeli state from within.' He declared, 'The Jewish people will defeat Gaza.' In response, Odeh defended his position, saying it reflects 'a moral and humanitarian stance' supported by the majority of people around the world. He pointed out that 'none of the 70 signatories condemned the killing of children in G aza,' and noted that 'some even called for the total destruction of Gaza.' Odeh asserted, 'I will not be silenced,' and emphasized his commitment to resisting the campaign against him 'with determination and integrity,' alongside democratic and progressive forces.