Arab Mayor Criticizes Israeli Government, Blames Ben-Gvir and Smotrich
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Sakhnin Mayor Ma'azen Ganaim criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's government for its reliance on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, whom he blames for harming Israel and hindering peace. Ganaim stated that Arab citizens have helped build the country and are now struggling to fund basic services due to government policies. He expressed pessimism about achieving peace in the current political climate.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Sakhnin Mayor Ma'azen Ganaim criticized Israeli government leaders Ben-Gvir and Smotrich.
- Ganaim accused the government of harming Israel and hindering peace for future generations.
- He stated that Arab citizens have contributed to building Israel.
- Arab local authorities face severe financial difficulties, unable to pay salaries or collect garbage.
- Ganaim expressed pessimism about achieving true peace in the current political era.
Ma'azen Ganaim, the Mayor of Sakhnin, expressed deep disappointment with the current Israeli government's approach to Arab citizens and its political alliances. Speaking on 103fm, Ganaim criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's reliance on figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, whom he accused of harming the state more than any external force. Ganaim asserted that Arabs have contributed to building Israel and questioned the blame often placed upon them.
He specifically addressed the political aspirations of Mansour Abbas, Chairman of the Ra'am party, asking what Abbas has received in return for seeking legitimacy within the government. Ganaim lamented that in the era of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, he does not believe true peace will be achieved even for future generations, stating, "Our children and not even our grandchildren will live for another real peace."
Ganaim highlighted the severe financial struggles faced by Arab local authorities, noting that despite representing 20% of the population, they are unable to pay salaries or manage basic services like garbage collection due to the government's policies. He contrasted these difficulties with the stated goals of Arab local leaders upon election, which included focusing on education, employment, and development.
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