Veteran Politician Ayoub Kara Returns to Likud Primaries, Challenging Non-Jewish Representation Slot

Former Communications Minister Ayoub Kara has announced his return to politics by entering the Likud party primaries, a move that could impact the party's reserved slot for a non-Jewish candidate in the Knesset list. Kara, who had paused his political activity in recent years, is known for his work on Israel's international relations, particularly with countries involved in the Abraham Accords, and for strengthening ties with the Druze community in Syria following the regime's fall.

Kara's candidacy may challenge the current leading non-Jewish candidate, MK Mufid Mari, for the designated representation spot within Likud. Party members have encouraged Kara to run due to recent regional developments and the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords, emphasizing the need for a senior representative from the Arabic-speaking non-Jewish sector in the party and possibly in the government.

Ayoub Kara served in senior government roles, including as Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and later as Communications Minister in Benjamin Netanyahu's government in 2017. During his tenure, he focused on regulating the communications market and authorized the broadcasting license for Channel 14 in 2020. His return to the Likud primaries marks a significant development ahead of the upcoming elections.