United Arab List Head Explains Party's Strategy to Son

Dr. Mansour Abbas, head of the United Arab List (UAL), published a letter he wrote to his son Mohammed, addressing questions about the current elections and the party's political strategy. In the letter, posted on his Facebook page, Abbas explained the UAL's decision to join the governing coalition.

Responding to his son's query about the difference between the UAL and another Arab list, Abbas stated the core distinction lies in whether one seeks to "express" or to "change." While both lists are Arab and oppose right-wing and racist politics, he argued that the UAL's approach of joining the coalition is the most effective way to "express" anger and influence policy. He believes this strategy allows Arabs to be in positions of power and influence, rather than just in opposition.

Abbas defended the decision to join the coalition, asserting that the Knesset only has two options: coalition or opposition. He argued that sitting in opposition alongside the right-wing parties would not be sufficient revenge or a path to achieving their demands. He also dismissed alternative strategies, like the "network" approach, questioning why they were not proposed earlier.

Addressing accusations of concessions and propaganda spread on platforms like TikTok, Abbas stated that competitors who lack substance resort to rumors. He emphasized that the UAL presents its approach and achievements, allowing the public to decide. He expressed regret over the attacks from "our colleagues on the second list."

Abbas highlighted the UAL's achievements within the coalition in just one year, contrasting them with the lack of progress over decades in opposition. He cited examples of pressing issues like daily killings, demolition orders, and the lack of basic services in some villages, arguing these require direct influence from within the government. He also referenced the limited impact of long-serving Knesset members, like Abu Kamel, who he said achieved a law for delayed flight compensation, while more significant issues remain unresolved.

He rejected the notion that the UAL made significant concessions, defining politics as the "art of the possible" and stating they maintain their principles while achieving goals. He also used an analogy of a mayor needing to build schools and pave roads, not just protest, to illustrate the need for practical action in the Knesset. He concluded by reiterating the UAL's goals of security, full budgets for their communities, a better life, and higher political status for Arabs, asserting that the UAL was instrumental in removing Netanyahu from power once and will do so again.