Tamar's Popular Committee Head Blames Police, Government for Rising Violence

Mohamed Subh, head of the Popular Committee in the Israeli Arab city of Tamar, stated that six people were injured in separate shooting incidents within the past 24 hours. He attributed the escalating violence to the widespread availability of weapons and the normalization of using firearms to resolve personal disputes. Subh noted that these incidents appear to be unrelated and stem from individual conflicts, with gunfire often directed at homes and vehicles without sufficient deterrence.

While acknowledging the role of community reconciliation committees, Subh emphasized that the primary responsibility for enforcing law and order lies with the police. He criticized the recent decline in public activism and protests in Tamar following violent events, suggesting this has reduced popular pressure on the government and police. Subh cited a past incident where police apprehended a suspect within 24 hours, demonstrating their capability when sufficient effort is applied, and accused the government and security forces of a systematic policy leading to the security decline in the Arab community.

Looking ahead, Subh called for continued efforts through reconciliation committees and community work, but stressed the need for additional pressure tactics. He linked the resolution of these issues to political change, advocating for a 70% or higher voter turnout in the Arab community in the upcoming elections. Subh believes that policy changes can be achieved either by reforming existing institutions or replacing responsible individuals, extending this concern beyond violence to other issues affecting the Arab community. He also urged broad Arab representation in the Knesset, expressing support for the Joint List while encouraging maximum participation in voting to elect as many representatives as possible.