Democrats Chair Yair Golan Calls to Resolve Unrecognized Bedouin Villages Issue in Negev

Yair Golan, chairman of the Democratic Party, visited a Bedouin community in the Negev this week amid the upcoming Knesset elections scheduled for October 27. Speaking to local residents in Arabic, Golan expressed his pain over the situation of unrecognized villages in the Negev and emphasized the need to find a solution. He criticized the recent demolition campaigns targeting illegal homes, suggesting these actions serve as an election tactic linked to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who oversees law enforcement in the region.

Golan affirmed that his commitment to the Negev residents is equal to his commitment to those in Rosh HaAyin, where he lives. He highlighted his familiarity with development plans for the Negev, stating that these plans could form the basis for resolving the status of unrecognized villages. Addressing the Arab public in the Negev, Golan called for their support to help translate these plans into political action.

In recent months, the Democratic Party has intensified its election campaign to encourage high voter turnout among the Arab population, aiming to increase Arab political representation and support the party. This strategy is intended to help secure a majority capable of ousting the right-wing government.