Ra'am Leader Mansour Abbas Defends Israel's Jewish Character and Advocates Palestinian State Recognition

Mansour Abbas, chairman of the Ra'am party, addressed criticism regarding his positions on Israel's Jewish identity, civil service for Arab citizens, and the Nakba in a Facebook post on Wednesday. Abbas argued that his statements have been distorted and clarified that Israel's Jewish character is a reality imposed on Arab citizens, not a choice made by them. He explained that Arab parties must accept this reality to avoid disqualification from Knesset and local elections.

Abbas reaffirmed his longstanding support for Palestinian self-determination and recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. He contrasted his current tone with his 2021 remarks, when he stated that Israel was born as a Jewish state and would remain so. On the issue of civil service, Abbas said Ra'am supports voluntary Arab initiatives that are non-military and non-security related but opposes the current form of national civil service.

Regarding the Nakba, Abbas emphasized that he does not deny the Palestinian narrative of displacement. He said his political shift aims to influence reality and prevent a "new Nakba" or further expulsions. Abbas stated his primary goal is to replace what he called the "racist and fascist government" with a less harmful one that includes meaningful Arab participation, even at personal cost.

At Ra'am's 28th national conference last weekend, attended by about 1,050 party members, Abbas highlighted the party's strategy to continue influencing Israeli politics from within. He called for Arab-Jewish partnership, citing cooperation between Arab and Jewish doctors and workers as a remedy for racism and fascism. Abbas also urged the US and Israel to recognize the Palestinian state, stating that peace between Israel and Palestine would end the conflict, occupation, and enable reconciliation and security for both peoples. He described Arab-Palestinian citizens of Israel as a bridge toward these goals.