Haredi MKs Urged to Ally With Arab Counterparts Amid Knesset Chaos
Translated & summarized from JDN by baba
Haredi lawmakers are urged to cooperate with Arab MKs amid Knesset chaos, focusing on shared civil and daily challenges like avoiding mandatory conscription and preserving tradition. The author argues this alliance is crucial for mutual benefit, especially on security matters, and highlights potential for practical collaboration on issues like education and infrastructure. This approach aims to foster constructive engagement and counter divisive rhetoric.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Haredi MKs should cooperate with Arab counterparts amid Knesset chaos, the article argues.
- Shared challenges include avoiding mandatory conscription and preserving traditional values.
- Collaboration is deemed essential for mutual benefit, particularly on security issues.
- Practical cooperation on education, infrastructure, and daily needs is encouraged.
- The author warns against divisive rhetoric regarding loyalty to Zionism.
Amidst what was described as chaotic scenes resembling a circus in the Knesset's Arrangements Committee on Wednesday, a call has been made for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) lawmakers to extend a hand of cooperation to their Arab colleagues. The author argues that despite perceived attempts to delegitimize Arab Knesset members, a strategic alliance is necessary for mutual benefit, particularly on issues vital to the Haredi community.
The piece suggests that Haredi MKs should reject the notion of boycotting Arab lawmakers, instead advocating for a proactive approach to build bridges. This collaboration is deemed essential for securing support on critical matters, especially those concerning national security, which the author believes are often misunderstood by the general public. The argument is made that while the Haredi and Arab sectors come from different backgrounds, they frequently face parallel challenges on civil and daily matters.
These shared challenges include a strong emphasis on avoiding mandatory conscription, preserving traditional values, upholding the institution of the family, maintaining educational autonomy, and ensuring public spaces respect their religious customs. The author stresses that this is not about ideological compromise but a practical understanding that everyday needs transcend political divides. Examples include collaborating on infrastructure projects or educational funding, irrespective of differing views on groups like Hamas.
The article highlights a personal experience where MK Yasser Hujirat, Chairman of the Science Committee, showed respect for the Haredi community's needs regarding technology accessibility, even explaining Haredi customs to Jewish representatives. This illustrates the potential for constructive engagement. The author contends that Haredi parties are permitted to participate in the Knesset, even if considered a "house of heresy," to minimize damage, regardless of who offers assistance.
Ultimately, the piece advocates for practical cooperation based on mutual respect and a focus on tangible needs, from education to housing and infrastructure. It suggests that by embracing their unique identities, both communities can forge effective partnerships. The author also warns against divisive rhetoric regarding loyalty to Zionism, referencing a report about Arab MKs not singing the Israeli national anthem, urging swift action to counter such narratives and avoid being swayed by those who have previously incited against them.
