Arab Parties Plan Knesset Leadership Challenge Post-Election

Ahmad Tibi, chairman of the Hadash-Ta'al party, outlined a strategy for Arab political parties to exert influence in the Knesset immediately following the upcoming elections, even without forming a government. Tibi stated in an interview on "Meet the Press" that these parties could leverage their parliamentary power to enact changes, emphasizing a "range of steps" available.

A key element of this plan involves challenging the current Speaker of the Knesset, Amir Ohana. Tibi declared that Arab parties would support a candidate opposing Ohana, highlighting the significant political implications of electing a new speaker. He suggested that controlling the Knesset speakership could grant "absolute control" over parliamentary proceedings, influencing the agenda and legislative process even before a government is formed.

Tibi also addressed the possibility of Arab parties recommending a candidate for prime minister to the President, hinting that their actions might go beyond this. He recalled a past instance where such a recommendation, made by Arab parties for Benny Gantz, led to significant political developments.

He dismissed the notion that the consolidation of Arab parties into the Joint List and Ra'am hinders the "change bloc" from achieving a majority. Tibi pointed to internal disputes among the Zionist opposition parties as the primary obstacle to forming a government, stating, "The problem is the Jews, not the Arabs." He asserted that a strong showing by the Arab parties is crucial for any potential shift in power, citing poll numbers that suggest a majority is unattainable without their support.

Tibi clarified that his party's objective is not to join the government or have an Arab leader as prime minister, but rather to utilize parliamentary tools to alter the existing political reality.