Arab-Israeli Lawmaker Ejected from Knesset Amid Heated Gaza War Debate

Arab-Israeli Lawmaker Removed from Knesset Podium Amid Gaza War Debate JERUSALEM, May 23, 2025 – Tensions flared in the Israeli Knesset on Wednesday, May 21, as Arab-Israeli opposition lawmaker Ayman Odeh was forcefully removed from the speaker's podium during a speech. The incident occurred during a debate on the ongoing Gaza conflict and the commemoration of the Nakba, the 1948 displacement of Palestinians. Odeh, head of the Hadash-Ta'al List, was addressing the Knesset when he accused coalition members of prolonging the war for "political wins." His speech was repeatedly interrupted, escalating into a shouting match. Knesset Chairman Amir Ohana responded by calling security personnel to remove Odeh from the podium. "There is no political victory in this," Odeh reportedly shouted, his voice rising above the din. "You are prolonging the suffering of the people for your own political gain!" The incident highlights the deep divisions within the Israeli parliament and the ongoing tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict. The forceful removal of a lawmaker underscores the intensity of the political debate and raises questions about freedom of speech within the Knesset.