Violence in Arab Society Soars, Death Toll Hits 151
The Arab society is witnessing an alarming surge in violence as the death toll rises to 151 since the start of the year. The latest victim, 30-year-old Rashed Abu Salah, was shot dead yesterday morning near Sakhnin while inside his car.
This wave of violence has left the Arab community frustrated and feeling helpless. A resident of Beskhinin expressed his anger, stating, “There is no security, neither on the street nor in our homes. We are living in anarchy.”
Former member of the Knesset, Zuhair Bahlul, highlighted the disconnection between the demand for state protection and the complacency of Arab leadership. Bahlul discussed the need for police stations within Arab settlements, acknowledging that while integration is essential, the Arab leadership should not oppose the presence of law enforcement.
Bahlul recalled an incident during his time in the Knesset when the Minister of Internal Security, Gilad Erdan, criticized Arab Knesset members for their reluctance towards police stations. Bahlul emphasized the importance of protecting the Arab community while acknowledging their responsibility to abide by the law.
The consequences of this violence extend beyond the Arab society, as criminal organizations operating within these communities can also inflict harm on Jewish society. Bahlul invited individuals to visit different Arab settlements to witness the segregation and lack of common infrastructure, such as shared housing complexes and schools. He argued that these divisions hinder the improvement of quality of life for Arab citizens.
Bahlul attributed the current state of affairs to a combination of factors, including an establishment that alienates and ignores the Arab community, as well as a stagnant Arab leadership unwilling to change. He stressed the urgent need for the Arab leadership to adapt and address these issues before more lives are lost.
The situation remains concerning, with no immediate solution in sight. The violence continues to plague Arab society, leaving its members living in constant fear. The call for increased security and a proactive approach from Arab leadership grows stronger as the death toll continues to rise.
(Assisted in the preparation of the article: Noya Hasson 103fm)