Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Sparks Outrage With "New Life" Plan for Arab Emigration

Aryeh King, Jerusalem's deputy mayor and a prominent right-wing activist, has ignited controversy with a new initiative encouraging Arab citizens of Israel, Gaza Strip residents, and West Bank inhabitants to emigrate.

King posted on social media in Arabic, asking "Are you an Arab citizen looking to start a new life in a Western country?" He included a link for those interested in leaving, framing it as a "new life" plan to incentivize emigration in cooperation with various entities.

King is known for his extensive support of Israeli settlement expansion in East Jerusalem. He founded the "Israel Land Fund" to acquire Palestinian properties and transfer them to settlers, particularly in areas like Sheikh Jarrah, Silwan, and the Old City. He has faced repeated accusations of incitement, including harsh statements against Palestinian prisoners in Gaza and persistent calls for Palestinians to leave their land.

In response to his settlement activities and controversial statements, Canadian authorities revoked King's visa and banned him from entering Canada. This decision followed intense pressure from human rights and political organizations highlighting his role in systematic incitement and violations. King was first elected to the Jerusalem municipal council in 2013 and has used his position as deputy mayor to manage planning and construction files that facilitate the transfer of properties to settlement organizations.