Arab Citizens Show Increased Willingness to Vote in Upcoming Elections

Early indicators suggest a significant rise in voter turnout among Arab citizens in Israel, potentially altering the balance of power in the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. Polling data and on-the-ground observations indicate a growing intention to vote, with some experts predicting turnout rates of 68%-69%, a substantial increase from the approximately 45% in 2021 and 53% in 2022. The highest turnout in recent decades was around 65% in March 2020, when the Joint List achieved a record 15 mandates.

Public campaigns are actively encouraging early voting, particularly in mixed cities, to mitigate concerns about potential violence or interference. This election cycle also features four Arab women in realistic positions on party lists: Dr. Mahah Karkabi Sabbah (Balad) and Dr. Nihaya Wahahe (Hadash) on the Joint List, Sumaya Bashir (Democrats), and MK Iman Khatib-Yassin (Ra'am). These candidates bring diverse professional backgrounds, including sociology, education, and social work.

Samaa Salaymeh, a feminist writer and commentator, notes a palpable sense of urgency within the Arab community to participate in the electoral process. She attributes this to a combination of factors, including the high murder rate and rising crime within the community, a perceived hostile political climate, and the belief that voting is the only remaining avenue for equal rights for Arab citizens. Salaymeh highlights that many who previously boycotted elections are now motivated to vote, viewing leaders like Netanyahu, Smotrich, and Ben-Gvir as detrimental to the Arab community, despite acknowledging that the chances of significant political change are slim.

Salaymeh also addresses concerns about potential voter suppression tactics, recalling past incidents like the "Arabs are flocking to the polls" slogan and attempts to install cameras. She advises voters to exercise caution, suggesting women vote in groups with children and young people avoid large gatherings to prevent provocations. Despite these concerns, there is a notable shift, with even those who haven't voted in years expressing their intention to participate, fueled by campaigns like "Wa'qfa 'a Sotek" (Your Vote Matters).

Historically, women have voted at lower rates than men, but this trend is expected to change, with young women showing increased engagement. The potential election of four Arab women to the Knesset is seen as a significant development, with Salaymeh emphasizing their qualifications and diverse perspectives, regardless of religious affiliation. Attention is also being drawn to the Negev region and areas where Arab citizens previously voted for Zionist parties, with expectations that support for parties like Likud and Yesh Atid within the Arab community will decrease.