Arab Follow-Up Committee Plans Jerusalem Uprising Anniversary Events
The Higher Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens in Israel is preparing to commemorate the 26th anniversary of the Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Uprising. Events are scheduled for Saturday, October 3rd, in the city of Arraba, including visits to martyrs' graves and a national march. The committee will hold a preparatory meeting on Thursday in Arraba's municipality, involving popular committees from the Batuf region and other components.
Dr. Jamal Zahalka, head of the committee, stated that this year's commemoration occurs amidst a complex political and social climate. He emphasized the importance of preserving the national dimension of the anniversary, linking it to the causes for which the martyrs fell, particularly freedom, justice, and Palestinian rights. Zahalka explained that the anniversary events aim to highlight issues connected to the uprising, such as the status of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa, and the Palestinian people's right to freedom and independence.
Zahalka described the Arab community as facing increasing pressures in various areas, including freedom of expression, personal security, crime, violence, land and housing issues, and what he termed an attack on Arab medical staff. He stressed that the Arab community should not be viewed solely as a victim but as capable of organizing and demanding justice. Regarding upcoming elections, Zahalka noted that the committee itself does not adopt a unified electoral stance due to its diverse components, but most members are working to increase voter turnout and political participation while opposing attempts to disqualify Arab lists or candidates.
Zahalka also addressed land issues, calling the confiscation of lands and attempts to alter the reality in the Galilee and Negev an ongoing battle and rejecting any concessions. He advocated for direct negotiations between Arab community representatives and the Israeli government to resolve land and housing disputes, asserting that unilateral solutions are ineffective. He cited the Al-Ruha lands experience as an example of successful negotiation, suggesting that many stalled issues could be resolved with political will. Zahalka affirmed that the Arab community seeks solutions based on respecting property rights and the right to housing, not confrontation, and will not abandon its rights despite difficult circumstances.
