KNESSET MEMBER DEFENDS INDICTED INDIVIDUALS IN INCITEMENT CASE
In the wake of charges against two citizens from Umm al-Fahm, Knesset Member Ahmad Tibi has spoken out in their defense, citing concerns over freedom of expression and criticism of the war.
Jamie Bailey
- 2023-12-27
- Updated 10:26 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - Israeli authorities have charged Mohammed Ali Jabarin, 31, and attorney Ahmad Khalifeh, 41, both from Umm al-Fahm, with incitement to terrorism and identification with a terrorist organization. The charges stem from their participation in a procession last month where, according to the indictment, direct calls for acts of terror were made. The protest, which took place on October 19th without police permission, saw 200-300 people expressing support for Gaza and opposing the war.
COUNTER-CLAIMS OF PEACEFUL PROTEST
MK Ahmad Tibi argued that the two were simply voicing their disagreement with the war and denied the indictment's claims that the individuals called for terror attacks during the demonstration. He asserted that Jabarin and Khalifeh have been detained for more than two months for their desire to protest against the conflict, emphasizing their message, "enough with the war, it kills people." Tibi cited dozens of arrests of Arab citizens since October 7th for actions that had not previously resulted in detention, questioning the motives behind these legal actions.
CRITICAL OF DETENTION PRACTICES
Further criticism from Tibi targeted the Shin Bet and police practices involving detention extensions, which he labeled as "acts of vengeance." These remarks underscore a growing debate over the boundaries of free expression and the state's response to perceived security threats, particularly in the context of Arab-Israeli relations and the contentious environment fostered by war and political unrest.
The case continues to draw attention as it unfolds, with the implications of the verdict likely to have considerable impact on both legal precedents and civic freedoms in Israel. Both Jabarin and Khalifeh remain in custody as they await further legal proceedings. Meanwhile, discussions around protest rights and anti-terrorism measures are expected to persist among the public and legislators alike.
