Ra'am Leader Mansour Abbas Acknowledges Palestinian Nakba, Defends Political Stance

Mansour Abbas, chairman of the Ra'am party, sparked political controversy after posting in Arabic to clarify his views on Israel's core issues. Responding to criticism from the Arab sector over a past interview where he said he would no longer describe Zionist groups as having "conquered Palestine," Abbas affirmed his recognition of the Palestinian Nakba, calling it a "Palestinian catastrophe." He denied accusations of denying the Nakba or Palestinian narrative, stating that while his political approach has evolved to emphasize partnership and influence, this does not negate the historical reality or narrative of the Nakba and displacement.

Abbas questioned whether a different political phrasing could better express the truth of the Nakba, learn from history, and present a practical vision for the future that addresses ongoing injustices and prevents further displacement. He also addressed the Jewish character of the state, describing it as an imposed reality chosen by the Jewish majority, not by the Arab minority. Abbas explained that Arab parties have had to accept this reality pragmatically to avoid disqualification from elections. He emphasized Ra'am's priorities lie in strengthening the Arab community's status, securing national and civil rights, and playing an active political role within the government rather than remaining in opposition. Abbas reaffirmed Ra'am's support for Palestinian self-determination and recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Israel.

In response, Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist party and Finance Minister, accused Abbas of using "taqiyya" (concealment) to mask incitement. Smotrich described Abbas as a dangerous enemy hiding his true intentions, linked to the Muslim Brotherhood's strategy of gaining power to pursue jihad against Jews and Israel. Smotrich condemned efforts by former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot and left-wing factions to form a government with Abbas, pledging to oppose any government reliant on him and to protect Israel from being "sold out" to its enemies.