Former Knesset Member Osama Saadi Represents PA in Terror Lawsuits
Terror victims expressed shock upon discovering that former Knesset member Osama Saadi represented the Palestinian Authority in Israeli court during compensation lawsuits.
Terror attack victims and their families expressed deep shock after discovering that former Knesset member Osama Saadi represented the Palestinian Authority in Israeli legal proceedings regarding compensation claims. The hearings, which took place amid the 26th Knesset elections, brought families face-to-face with the veteran politician and attorney.
Saadi, a former lawmaker representing Ta'al within the Joint List, has long practiced law alongside his political career. During the court sessions, families involved in lawsuits against the PA for terror attacks recognized Saadi among the defense attorneys, triggering sharp condemnation from the plaintiffs.
"We were stunned to discover during the hearings that the person representing the entity that supports and finances terrorists is none other than a former MK from the Joint List," one of the plaintiffs' relatives told local media.
Legal Career and Prior Representation
While his presence in court startled the families, Saadi's legal representation of the Palestinian Authority is not a recent development. Records show he represented the PA prior to his tenure in the Knesset between 2015 and 2017, as well as from 2019 to 2022, working alongside other attorneys from his firm.
In addition to terror-related compensation suits, Saadi previously represented the PA in high-profile litigation concerning Palestinian plaintiffs who alleged arbitrary arrest and torture by PA security forces on suspicion of collaborating with Israel. In 2017, the Jerusalem District Court ruled that the PA bore responsibility for the unlawful detention of dozens of plaintiffs, detailing severe abuses in its verdict.
Saadi's Response to Criticism
Responding to the public outcry, Saadi defended his professional work, stating that legal representation is a legitimate duty for any attorney engaged in litigation and does not imply endorsement of a client's actions.
"Professional representation is legitimate for anyone, let alone an attorney whose main work is litigation. It must be clarified that a lawyer's representation does not mean identification with a client's actions. There is no connection whatsoever.»
Saadi added that he advises and represents the Palestinian Authority just like other law firms in Israel, emphasizing that his professional legal practice is entirely separate from his political activities.
