Arab Party Partners with Former MK Yoav Segalovich to Combat Crime

The United Arab List (Ra'am) has announced an unprecedented partnership with former Knesset Member Yoav Segalovich, who is known for his expertise in combating violence and crime. Ra'am leader Mansour Abbas stated that this collaboration aligns with the party's approach of partnership and influence, aiming to enhance the party's ability to address issues within the Arab community, particularly crime. Abbas emphasized that the partnership does not signify agreement on all political stances but rather a pursuit of shared interests.

Abbas explained that Segalovich's professional experience in fighting violence and crime, which he described as a fundamental need for the Arab community, is crucial for protecting its members. He also viewed the partnership as a political message to the Jewish community, countering racism and fascism, and noted that right-wing reactions highlighted the sensitivity of this move. Abbas believes a Jewish figure within Ra'am can help build bridges with the Jewish community, independent of immediate electoral calculations.

Segalovich stated that coexistence in Israel cannot thrive without genuine partnership across all sectors. Addressing potential disagreements within the party on security, politics, and religion, Abbas acknowledged that differing viewpoints are natural. He stressed that discipline within the bloc would be maintained, while allowing for specific understandings on certain issues, reiterating that both he and Segalovich would remain true to themselves, with the partnership focused on benefiting the Arab community.

Abbas rejected the idea that this partnership would merely serve to secure Ra'am's support for a slim parliamentary majority, vowing not to repeat the experience of the previous government formed with a 61-seat majority. He asserted that Ra'am would not be a "number" in any coalition, emphasizing his control over the political process and that government support would be contingent on advancing Arab community interests.

Regarding civil service, Abbas indicated that this issue should remain within the framework of Arab unity, acknowledging internal disagreements. He called for discussions within the Follow-up Committee and the Committee of Local Authority Heads to reach a unified position. Abbas also revealed that Ra'am has proposed a meeting with the Tripartite List to announce a surplus vote agreement and a code of honor, advocating for unity in cooperation, role-sharing, and integration.

Abbas affirmed that Ra'am, despite the new partnership, remains open to all segments of Arab society, including Christians and Druze, and those not currently supporting the party. He pledged that the party's doors, professional staff, and decision-making bodies would remain accessible to all Arab community members, ensuring Christians and Druze are not excluded from policy-making.