Arab Leaders Plan Response to Bar Ilan Lecturer's Arrest

The Higher Follow-up Committee for Arab Citizens in Israel and the National Committee of Heads of Arab Local Authorities convened to address the indictment. The lecturer allegedly planned to form organized, armed cells to carry out attacks against hundreds of Arab residents, specifically targeting towns like Touba Zangaria, in order to instill fear and encourage emigration.

Dr. Jamal Zahalka, head of the Follow-up Committee, stated the case was not isolated, linking the plot to a political climate of escalating incitement and anti-Arab rhetoric from government ministers. Mazen Ghnaim, head of the National Committee, emphasized the seriousness of the development while cautioning against spreading panic among the public.

The leadership decided on several judicial, political, and public actions in response. These measures include demanding an investigation by the Attorney General into alleged incitement by Channel 14, contacting foreign ambassadors and university presidents, and tasking the Arab Emergency Authority with preparing public safety guidelines and activating popular committees.