Arab Sector Turnout Surges, Potentially Deciding Next Government

A significant surge in voter turnout among the Arab sector in Israel could dramatically influence the formation of the next government, according to Channel 14's exit poll. The poll projected that Arab parties, the Joint List and Ra'am, would collectively win 17 seats in the Knesset, a substantial increase that could position them as kingmakers.

The campaign efforts by Arab parties explicitly aimed to unseat Prime Minister Netanyahu and prevent a right-wing government from forming. Leaders like Ahmad Tibi and Yousef Jabareen, head of the Joint List, framed the election as an opportunity to increase Arab political power and influence the next coalition. Mansour Abbas, head of Ra'am, declared that the vote was two hours away from ending "four years of disasters and 'nakbas'" and set a goal of keeping the right-wing out of power for a full four years.

Despite competing with each other, both Ra'am and the Joint List identified the removal of the current right-wing government as a primary objective. Ra'am seeks to be a partner in a new coalition, while the Joint List aims to provide external support to an alternative government in exchange for influence on policy and the advancement of their demands. These demands reportedly include increased budgets, an end to home demolitions in the Arab sector, and progress towards a two-state solution.

The increased turnout, particularly noted in Bedouin towns in the Negev like Rahat, Tel Sheva, and Segev Shalom, was fueled by widespread anger over issues such as crime, violence, and home demolitions. Pollster Yosef Makladah suggested that these factors, combined with a desire to replace Netanyahu and Minister Ben-Gvir, were key drivers of the heightened participation. Arab parties effectively translated this protest energy into organized voter mobilization.