Arab-Israeli parties, which include majority Arab lists, are preparing to cooperate with opponents to overthrow Benjamin Netanyahu's government in the October 27 elections. These lists seek to attract voters who are tired of the current government's policies.
Background and Social Status of Arab-Israelis
Arab Israelis, recognized as Palestinian citizens of Israel, make up about 21% of the country's population. They are descendants of Palestinians who remained within its borders after the establishment of Israel in 1948 and have consistently complained about the discrimination they face. As right-wing tendencies in Israel have severely challenged this minority's sense of belonging, many of these individuals are heading to the polls to steer the country away from extreme right-wing politics.
Read more: Tropical Storm Champi Leaves Thousands Without Power in Taiwan
Preparedness to Collaborate with Opponents
In the upcoming elections, Arab-Israeli representatives will participate with two lists. Representatives from these lists, including Mansour Abbas and Ahmad Jabarin, have stated that they are ready to collaborate with opponents if certain conditions are met. These opponents, led by Gadi Eisenkot, are in close competition with Netanyahu in the polls.
Abbas told reporters in Nazareth: "We want to be a significant partner so we can bring decisions to the table of the next government and address the major challenges facing the Arab community." He also referred to the selection of Yoav Segalovich, the first Jewish candidate on the Ra'am list, as a positive step toward Arab-Jewish cooperation.
This collaboration could help Arab parties assist Eisenkot in securing a majority in the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) if they gain a significant number of seats. Abbas also emphasized that they are not collaborating with Netanyahu in any way, and their only option is to work with Eisenkot's bloc.
Challenges and Expectations of the Arab-Israeli Community
Arab-Israelis, in addition to political calculations, are tired of the current situation. A former education official, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "No government has ever dealt with Arabs as harshly as this one. This government views Arabs with hostility." Additionally, Hanna Zreeq Saigh, the owner of a dance school, expressed hope for changes in government policies but feels that attitudes toward the Arab community in Israel are regressing.
Zaid Mansour, a 50-year-old barber, said: "Our community just wants a good and moderate government that respects its people and country. We do not want war, problems, and violence. We have suffered enough from these issues."
Read more: Marco Rubio Urges Cuban Reformists to Collaborate with the CIA · Gadi Eisenkot: A Security Option for the Prime Ministership of Israel
