Mansour Abbas Defends Acceptance of Jewish State to Avoid Disqualification, Does Not Deny Nakba

Mansour Abbas, leader of the United Arab List, addressed foundational issues of the State of Israel in a post written in Arabic on August 26, 2026. Responding to criticism over his previous remarks about Zionist groups conquering Palestine, Abbas clarified that accusations claiming he denies the Nakba, the Palestinian displacement narrative, are false. He emphasized that while his political approach and language have evolved, especially after promoting partnership and influence in recent years, this does not mean he rejects the Nakba or the Palestinian narrative.

Abbas explained that accepting Israel as a Jewish state was a necessary compromise to avoid disqualification from running for the Knesset. He questioned whether adopting a different political phrasing and approach might better reflect the truth of the Nakba, learn from historical experience wisely, and present a practical vision for the future. He suggested this could help Palestinians gain influence to address ongoing injustices, prevent further displacement, and move beyond the historical narrative to create a hopeful future narrative.

His statements come amid ongoing debates about the recognition of Israel’s Jewish character and the Palestinian historical narrative, highlighting the complex balance Abbas seeks between political pragmatism and acknowledgment of Palestinian history.