Arab Parties Eye Knesset Speaker Post in Post-Election Strategy

Joint List party leader Ahmad Tibi outlined a strategy for Arab political parties to exert influence in the Israeli Knesset immediately after 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 objective highlighted by Tibi is the replacement of the current Knesset Speaker, Amir Ohana. Tibi declared that his party would support a candidate opposing Ohana, stressing the significant political implications of electing a new speaker. He suggested that controlling the Knesset speakership could grant "absolute control" over the parliament's proceedings, influencing its agenda and legislative efforts 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 extend beyond this. He recalled a past instance where such a recommendation was made, referencing Benny Gantz's subsequent formation of a government. He dismissed claims that the strengthening of Arab parties hinders the "change bloc" (opposition parties) from achieving a majority, attributing the opposition's difficulties to internal disputes among Jewish parties.

He further asserted the necessity of a strong Joint List, comprising two lists (the Joint List and Ra'am), to effect change, citing projected Arab voter turnout of 60%. Tibi clarified that his party does not seek the prime minister position but is focused on utilizing parliamentary tools to alter the existing political reality.