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Local Call
Local Call is a left magazine outlet. We translate its reports into English and compare them with 43 other newsrooms.
Group in the coverage barLeft-wing pressIts own lean is rated Left.
Language and baseHebrew · Tel Aviv
The last 30 days
48reports translated
88%first to report
421 mintypical time behind the first report
100%carry a named author
8%opinion and analysis
Why not a score? These are rates we can recompute. A single number would hide whether a newsroom is slow, unnamed, or mostly reprints. How we measure
How Local Call writes
Local Call's tone this month is charged, more charged than the rest of the left-wing press.
From 48 reports this month, judged without the newsroom's name. How this is measuredOnly Local Call had it
Nothing of note in the last 48 hours that only Local Call reported.
Big stories Local Call skipped
Gun Theft at Givat Shmuel School Sparks Parental PanicCovered by 23 newsroomsIsrael's Election Day: Voting Hours, Free Transport, and Weather ForecastCovered by 22 newsroomsIsrael Votes After Four Years; Turnout Reaches 16.68%Covered by 18 newsroomsLatest from Local Call
Politics · 5d agoSmotrich and Ben-Gvir's Rhetoric May Backfire, Boosting Arab Voter TurnoutFinance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's aggressive rhetoric and policies targeting Arab citizens are predicted to significantly boost Arab voter turnout in upcoming elections. Their public boasts about settlement expansion and demolitions, previously downplayed, are now seen as direct threats that may galvanize Arab Israelis to vote against them. This increased participation could potentially prevent the right-wing bloc from securing a governing majority, drawing parallels to past political events where public statements led to unexpected electoral consequences.Politics · 7d agoNetanyahu's Likud Party Faces Steep Decline in Polls Amidst Radical Right InfluencePrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party is experiencing a significant decline in voter support, according to recent polls, potentially losing up to half its voters from the 2022 election. This drop is attributed to the growing influence of radical right-wing parties and a perceived weakening of Netanyahu's leadership. The judicial overhaul initiated in early 2023 is cited as a key factor alienating the urban middle class, a traditional Likud base. While some polls show a continued right-wing bloc lead, it is largely due to smaller parties, not the Likud itself, suggesting Netanyahu is increasingly a figurehead for other political forces.Politics · 7d agoHungary's Democratic Rebirth Offers Hope for IsraelSix months after Viktor Orbán's 16-year rule ended, Hungary is undergoing a complex re-democratization process. Activists celebrated a surprising electoral victory, emphasizing that populist movements are not deterministic. Positive changes include a more independent judiciary and media, but challenges remain in appointment processes and constitutional reform. The author suggests Hungary's experience offers hope for Israel, demonstrating that rapid change is possible through dedicated citizen mobilization, despite ongoing conflicts.Politics · 8d agoPalm Beach County Faces Protest Over $1 Billion Investment in Israeli BondsPalm Beach County, Florida, is facing intense protests over its $1 billion investment in Israeli government bonds, making it the largest holder outside Israel. Activists are demanding divestment ahead of a $67.5 million bond maturity on November 1st, aiming to prevent reinvestment. The conflict escalated with the arrest of activist Noura Erekat during a public hearing. Florida state law uniquely permits local governments to invest in Israeli bonds, a provision now under scrutiny. The county's investments have grown significantly, especially after October 7th, and the debate involves economic arguments, support for Israel, and concerns over alleged war crimes in Gaza.Politics · 11d agoFewer Polling Stations for Arab Voters in 2026 ElectionsFor the 2026 elections, Arab communities in Israel will have fewer polling stations per eligible voter compared to Jewish communities, according to a Stat-Net analysis. This reduction, despite an increase in Arab eligible voters, is seen by some as a deliberate effort to suppress the Arab vote. Experts argue that this disparity, coupled with logistical challenges and potential provocations at polling stations, could significantly lower Arab voter turnout. The Central Elections Committee stated that polling station locations are determined by the Interior Ministry via the Central Bureau of Statistics.Politics · 12d agoIsraeli Politics Echoes 1992 Debate on Arab Party SupportIn 1992, Israel's Hadash and Arab Democratic parties provided crucial external support to Yitzhak Rabin's government, despite ideological differences and being denied coalition membership. Today, similar debates surround the potential role of Arab parties like the Joint List and Ra'am in forming a government to replace Benjamin Netanyahu. While some Israeli politicians are open to including Arab parties, others explicitly reject such alliances. The article contrasts the 1992 embrace of Arab support by the left with current hesitancy, urging opposition leaders to define their terms for partnership with Arab parties.Politics · 14d agoYoung Federalists Propose Israeli-Palestinian FederationYoung Israelis and Palestinians have formed the "Young Federalists" movement, proposing a federal framework for two independent states based on 1967 borders with a shared Jerusalem. The plan, drafted on Ventotene Island, rejects separation and forced unity, advocating for equality, mutual recognition, and shared governance of key resources and defense. The movement aims to present a detailed roadmap for security and prosperity, urging a shift from conflict to building a shared future.Politics · 14d agoArab Israeli Community Shows Increased Election Interest Amid Existential FearsArab Israeli voter turnout is expected to rise significantly due to existential fears and a desire for change, according to a Joint List poll. Key issues include crime, war, and government policies, with activists noting increased engagement. The Joint List chairman has offered external support for a government replacing the current one, setting conditions, while Ra'am advocates for coalition membership. This political maneuvering highlights differing strategies for Arab representation and influence in Israeli politics.Politics · 18d agoPalestinian Citizen of Israel Withdraws Knesset Candidacy After Supreme Court HearingSami Abu Shehadeh, chairman of the Balad party, withdrew his Knesset candidacy on October 1, 2026, after a Supreme Court hearing on a disqualification petition. Justice Yitzhak Amit suggested withdrawal to avoid a likely disqualification ruling. The event is discussed by human rights expert Avir Bachar in a podcast, examining its implications for Palestinian citizens' relationship with the Israeli legal system.Politics · 20d agoSettler Outpost Method to Seize Land Reaches Israeli Supreme CourtA controversial settler outpost, termed a "shepherd's farm," has been established near Majd al-Krum, leading to protests and legal action. Minister Orit Strock supports expanding Jewish presence in the Galilee, while local council head Salim Salibi argues the farm violates land use laws. The High Court of Justice is set to hear a petition against a law that legalizes such outposts, which critics claim discriminates and enables illegal construction. The Jewish National Fund's actions on the ground appear to contradict its stated opposition to the law.Politics · 21d agoHow Liberals Enabled the Destruction of GazaThe article argues that the Israeli liberal camp, by focusing on judicial reform and depoliticizing the Palestinian issue, inadvertently enabled the right-wing's "decisive plan" for Gaza and the West Bank. While the right-wing, particularly figures like Bezalel Smotrich, laid the institutional groundwork for this plan, liberals shifted their focus to internal political battles, such as judicial independence. This shift allowed the right's expansionist and militaristic agenda to advance, with liberals ultimately participating in the justification of policies that harmed Palestinians. The article suggests that the liberal movement's inability to challenge the core tenets of the right's agenda has trapped Israeli political discourse within a framework of ongoing colonialism and potential genocide.Politics · 22d agoIsraeli Education System's Core Messages Echoed by Palestinian LeaderPalestinian leader Sami Abu Shahadeh has drawn Israeli ire for messages echoing Israeli educational narratives of the oppressed overcoming powerful empires. However, his conclusion that this leads to a call for peace, rather than destruction, is seen as a "red line" that disrupts Israeli self-perception.Politics · 22d agoPalestinian Citizens of Israel Face Erosion of Rights and PowerPalestinian citizens of Israel are experiencing a significant erosion of their rights and political power, particularly since October 7th. Their citizenship, once a source of protection and potential influence, is becoming increasingly conditional and vulnerable to the whims of the majority and state power, leading to a sense of political powerlessness and a struggle to define their identity and belonging.Politics · 26d ago · also in 25 newsroomsIsraeli Court Decision on Arab Candidate Could Redefine Palestinian Political RepresentationA potential Israeli Supreme Court ruling on the disqualification of Palestinian citizen Sami Abu Shehadeh from Knesset elections could grant the state unchecked power to determine Palestinian representation, shifting the existing hierarchy towards political apartheid. The author argues this would significantly curtail the limited political space for Palestinian citizens in Israel.Politics · 27d agoCourt to Rule on Disqualification of Arab Candidates Amid Discrimination ClaimsIsrael's Supreme Court will review the disqualification of Arab candidates from the upcoming elections, following claims that the Central Elections Committee applied disqualification criteria unevenly. The court will examine whether a single, contested article was sufficient grounds to disqualify Sami Abu Shehadeh, while extensive evidence against right-wing candidates was dismissed.Politics · 27d ago · also in 18 newsroomsArab Israeli Society Debates Trust in Supreme Court Over Candidate DisqualificationsThe Israeli Supreme Court will hear a case regarding the disqualification of Arab Israeli lawmakers Sami Abu Shehadeh and Ofer Cassif from the upcoming Knesset elections. The decision has ignited a debate within the Arab Israeli community about whether to challenge the court or withdraw candidates, with legal experts offering conflicting advice.Politics · 27d agoPalestinian Identity Debated Ahead of Crucial Arab Israeli ElectionsA podcast episode discusses the critical upcoming elections for Arab citizens in Israel, focusing on the ideological split between the Joint List's focus on Palestinian identity and Ra'am's emphasis on civic interests. Historian Dr. Lina Dala'sha analyzed how this debate influences Arab voter strategy.Politics · 27d agoUS and Israeli Elections Mirror Each Other Amidst Foolishness, Bullshit, and EvilAn analysis of the upcoming US and Israeli elections suggests a shared political climate characterized by "foolishness, bullshit, and evil." The article draws on philosophical and historical concepts to explain how leaders and their actions create societal harm, while also pointing to economic-focused campaigns as a potential way to break negative cycles.Politics · 28d agoLegal Scholar Mautner's Critique of Israel's Judicial System and Liberal HegemonyLegal scholar Menachem Mautner's new book criticizes the Israeli Supreme Court's shift from legal formalism to value-based interpretation in the 1980s, arguing it damaged democracy. His work is being misused by proponents of the current judicial overhaul, while Mautner himself expresses concern for democratic principles and the judiciary's independence.Politics · 29d ago · also in 4 newsroomsArab Parties' Disqualification Debate Highlights Israeli Political TensionsThe disqualification of Arab parties and candidates in Israel, exemplified by the case of Sami Abu Shehadeh, has sparked significant political debate regarding the civic and political status of Palestinian citizens. Supporters of disqualification cite concerns over incitement, while critics argue it represents a broader effort to silence Arab political voices and a double standard compared to remarks by Jewish officials. The controversy has impacted Arab voter support for parties involved.Politics · 29d agoIsraeli Right-Wing Frustrated Despite Achieving Radical GoalsDespite enacting policies previously considered extreme, including significant displacement of Palestinians and expansion of settlements, Israel's right-wing faces internal frustration and division. The article argues this stems from unfulfilled promises of "absolute victory" and a weakening international standing, even as radical agendas advance.Politics · 32d agoLatin America Emerges as Israel's Diplomatic Haven Amid Shifting AlliancesA wave of right-wing and populist leaders in Latin America are strengthening ties with Israel, often bypassing international law and human rights concerns. This shift includes recognizing Israeli sovereignty over disputed territories and moving embassies to Jerusalem, contrasting with previous regional trends. The trend is seen as Israel seeking diplomatic support and immunity from accountability.Politics · 34d agoIsrael Considers Revoking Citizenship Over Criticism of Military ActionsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is proposing legislation to revoke citizenship for those who criticize IDF soldiers, sparking debate about the nature of citizenship and state power. Critics argue this move further erodes the effective citizenship of Palestinian citizens of Israel and expands state control over its populace.Politics · 35d ago · also in 1 newsroomHerzog's Pardon for Azaria Continues Legacy of Impunity for Killing PalestiniansPresident Isaac Herzog's decision to erase Elor Azaria's criminal record, convicted of killing a Palestinian, is criticized as a political act that legitimizes the killing of Palestinians and continues a historical pattern of impunity. The move is seen as sending a message to soldiers that convictions for killing Palestinians can eventually be nullified by the state.Politics · 41d agoUltra-Orthodox Community Faces Disillusionment with Right-Wing GovernmentThe ultra-Orthodox community in Israel is experiencing deep disillusionment with the current right-wing government and its traditional political parties. Key issues include the military draft, internal party conflicts, and a perceived failure of leadership to protect community interests, leading to the rise of new political movements.Politics · 42d ago · also in 4 newsroomsSettler Outpost Emerges Near Arab Town in Northern IsraelA new settler outpost was established near the Arab town of Majd al-Krum in Israel's Galilee region, sparking protests from residents concerned about land appropriation. The settlers, claiming a grazing permit, began dismantling the outpost after facing opposition and clarification from authorities.Politics · 46d ago · also in 2 newsroomsReport Alleges "Apartheid" in Israeli Academia Against Arab StudentsA report by Adalah alleges "apartheid" in Israeli academia, claiming Arab students face systematic persecution and disciplinary actions for off-campus speech, while Jewish students are largely protected. The report details alleged due process violations and discriminatory practices against Palestinian students following the October 7th attacks.Politics · 48d ago · also in 6 newsroomsHadash Party Candidate Jaafar Farah Withdraws Amid Sexual Harassment AllegationsJaafar Farah, a candidate for Israel's Hadash party, withdrew from the Knesset race following sexual harassment allegations. The party council voted to suspend his candidacy, replacing him with Faten Ghattas, amid internal dissent and pressure from feminist organizations.Politics · 48d agoHolon Shuts Homeless Services, Burdening Neighboring CitiesHolon has closed its unit for the homeless, leading to a lack of services for residents and increased strain on neighboring cities like Tel Aviv. Officials cite budget issues, while critics warn of severe health and social consequences for the vulnerable population.Politics · 49d agoMansour Abbas's Political Project: Pragmatism Over National IdentityAn analysis of Mansour Abbas's political strategy argues he prioritizes the practical well-being of Arab citizens in Israel over strict adherence to national identity, advocating for government participation and moderated rhetoric to achieve change from within the existing system.Politics · 50d agoIsraeli Arab Citizens Targeted in Election Rhetoric Amidst Rising TensionsAn Israeli minister's AI-generated campaign video threatening Arab citizens is seen as part of a broader pattern of incitement against the Arab minority. The article argues that Arab citizens are being used as a convenient election scapegoat by the right-wing, and that any alternative government must embrace Arab partnership as legitimate.Politics · 53d agoIsraeli Education System Criticized for Imposing Identity Over IndividualityAn Israeli author criticizes the political push to instill a specific Jewish-Zionist identity in students, arguing it stifles individuality and true education. The article contrasts this with the ideas of author S. Yizhar, who advocated for an education that fosters independent thought and responsibility, and notes that all major political parties are currently focused on identity-based education.Politics · 55d ago · also in 3 newsroomsCampaign Against Harassment Forces Political Reckoning in Arab Israeli PoliticsA campaign demanding accountability for alleged sexual harassment has brought issues of women's rights and misconduct to the forefront of liberal Arab politics in Israel, focusing on Knesset candidate Jaafar Farah. While Farah denies allegations and was not removed from the Hadash party list, the campaign has led to a conditional apology, a commitment to withdraw if indicted, and a broader reckoning within the party and Arab political institutions.Politics · 56d agoIsraeli Opposition Faces Scrutiny Over Inaction Against 'Jewish Supremacy Regime'An opinion piece criticizes the Israeli opposition for failing to resist a perceived "Jewish supremacy regime" that oppresses Palestinians and leftists. The author argues that the opposition has been paralyzed in three stages, culminating in its alignment with government policies during wartime and its failure to address the root issue of Palestinian annexation.Politics · 56d agoIsraeli Education System Faces Ideological Battle Over Public vs. Private FundingDr. Gil Gertel, an education researcher, argues that Israel's education system is embroiled in a two-decade ideological battle between humanist and capitalist views on education. He criticizes government policies promoting privatization and widening socioeconomic gaps, while also noting increased state control over curriculum, particularly affecting Arab teachers.Politics · 56d agoIranian Musician Mohsen Namjoo Returns to Tehran After 20 Years in ExileAcclaimed Iranian musician Mohsen Namjoo has returned to Tehran after 20 years in exile, following a government initiative to allow exiled artists back into the country. His return has ignited controversy due to past allegations of sexual assault and his perceived support for the regime.Politics · 56d agoArab-Israeli Partnership Debate Echoes 80-Year-Old Ideological DivideAn opinion piece argues that the debate over Arab-Israeli partnership in Israel echoes an ideological conflict from 1944, where Jewish leadership sought conformity from Arabs. The author contrasts the pragmatic approach of Ra'am, which prioritizes civil gains, with the Joint List's insistence on inseparable national and civil rights, criticizing liberal Jewish support for Ra'am as undermining potential democratic alliances.