Aviv Alush Criticizes Mansour Abbas as a 'Wolf in Sheep's Clothing' Over Israel Recognition

Actor and singer Aviv Alush publicly criticized Mansour Abbas, leader of the Ra'am party, following Abbas's recent Arabic-language post clarifying his stance on Israel's identity as a Jewish state. Abbas admitted that his recognition of Israel as a Jewish state was "imposed" on him as a political necessity to run for the Knesset. Alush responded sharply, calling Abbas "always a wolf in sheep's clothing."

Abbas addressed his past statements, including controversial remarks about "Zionist gangs conquering Palestine," emphasizing that his recent change in tone does not signify a denial of his Palestinian national narrative or the Nakba. He rejected accusations that he denies the Nakba or Palestinian displacement, calling such claims fabrications.

Abbas explained that his political strategy, termed "the approach of partnership and influence," is a sophisticated tactic aimed at gaining political power to advance the Palestinian national cause. He argued that adopting a different political language and approach could better express the truth of the Nakba, learn from historical experience, and present a practical vision for the future. Abbas seeks to use Israeli politics to address ongoing injustices, prevent further displacement, and move beyond historical narratives to shape a hopeful future.

These statements come weeks after the investigative series "The Leopard Jihad" aired on Channel 14, during which Abbas also called on Israel and the United States to recognize a Palestinian state and end the occupation. At Ra'am's national conference in Tayibe, Abbas reiterated his goal of returning to a position of influence within the coalition, stating that "the State of Palestine exists and is recognized by most of the world except the US and Israel," and expressing his commitment to peace, reconciliation, and ending the conflict through political partnership.

Alush's criticism highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli society regarding Abbas's political role and his approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.