Seven notes on the election campaign in Arab society

Shlomi Deskal analyzes the election campaign in Arab society: the unification of parties, the exclusion of women, Ra'am's promise to topple Netanyahu, and the emergence of a young generation in Arab politics.

Shlomi Deskal analyzes the election campaign in Arab society in the 2026 elections. The starting point was the unification of the four major Arab parties following a public protest led by Ali Zbeidat from Sakhnin, a supermarket chain owner who went on strike against organized crime. The unification was delayed due to the 'Lion's Roar' war, but ultimately Ra'am and the Joint List ran together. The primaries excluded women from realistic slots, but a high voter turnout brought in women such as Dr. Maha Karakbi-Sabah and Dr. Nihaya Weshahi. The defining moment was Ra'am's promise to topple Netanyahu if it received 8 seats, and the Joint List's promise of a safety net for any coalition that would oust him. The article also notes the appearance of Ahmed Draousha, the son of the late MK, as a representative of the younger generation, and the absence of political dynasties in Arab society.

Seven notes on the election campaign in Arab society