Head of Ba'na Council Endorses United Arab List Ahead of Elections

The United Arab List (Ra'am), an Arab political party in the Knesset, held an election rally in the town of Ba'na, emphasizing the need to strengthen Arab influence in Israeli decision-making. The rally, titled "Ba'na Towards Greater Influence," was attended by Ra'am Chairman MK Mansour Abbas, fellow MKs Iman Khatib Yassin and Yasser Hujairat, the head of Ba'na's local council, Ibrahim Hissarma, activists, and residents.

Hissarma announced his support for Ra'am and its strategy of engaging in decision-making processes to advance issues crucial to the Arab community. He urged residents to vote and bolster Ra'am's political power. The MKs addressed recent political developments, the importance of the upcoming elections, and the need for a "covenant of honor" among Arab parties. They stressed that a stronger Ra'am would enhance its ability to influence decisions and tackle urgent issues facing the Arab community, including crime, housing, planning, and support for local authorities.

In a recent interview, Abbas stated that Israeli Arabs identify as "Palestinian Arabs" and that their national demands could include territorial autonomy, cultural autonomy, official status for the Arabic language, and land rights. Abbas also indicated that the upcoming election would be his last in the Knesset, with plans to retire and make way for younger leadership after the next term.