Tens of thousands of Arab and Jewish citizens converged in Tel Aviv Saturday night to protest what they describe as government neglect of Arab communities and a surge in violence. The demonstration, held in Habima Square, represented an unusual alliance between Israel’s Jewish anti-government movement and its Arab citizens.
Unprecedented Unity in Protest
Organizers estimated that approximately 40,000 people participated in the rally, a figure that would make it one of the largest demonstrations of its kind in Israel’s history. The crowd included Arab families and individuals regularly involved in protests against the current right-wing government. The scene was marked by symbolic displays of solidarity, such as a man wearing a “Brothers in Arms” shirt standing near a woman with a keffiyeh, and groups of teenagers chanting in Arabic accompanied by Jewish drummers.
Protesters carried black flags, now a prominent symbol of the movement against crime in Arab communities, and signs reading “Arab Lives Matter.” The rally was organized by the High Follow-Up Committee, the leading representative body for Arab citizens, with the stated goal of raising awareness among Jewish Israelis about the challenges facing Arab society.
Escalating Concerns Over Crime
The demonstration followed a recent wave of protests sparked by a strike in Sakhnin, initiated after a businessowner’s shops were targeted in shootings. This local action quickly spread to other Arab locales throughout the country. Sakhnin’s Mayor Mazen Ghnaim, speaking at the rally, emphasized the need for “personal security,” noting that 27 Arab citizens had been victims of homicide in the past month alone.
While organizers intentionally kept the main stage free of partisan politicians, High Follow-Up Committee chairman Jamal Zahalka delivered a speech accusing the state of “fueling crime organizations and criminals.” He led the crowd in a Hebrew chant, “Enough of the violence,” and called for an end to what he described as a “silent agreement between the police and criminal organizations.” Zahalka also criticized the argument that crime in Arab communities is a “cultural problem,” drawing parallels to similar claims made against Mizrahi Jews and Black Americans.
Liberal Jewish lawmakers, including Gilad Kariv of The Democrats, expressed support for the protest and indicated a shared goal of removing National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir from office. Ayman Odeh, chairman of Hadash-Ta’al, suggested the demonstration could mark a turning point in uniting Jewish and Arab Israelis and encourage greater Arab participation in protests against the current government.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted this demonstration?
The demonstration was prompted by a surge in crime within Arab communities in Israel, and a perception of government neglect in addressing the issue. A recent strike in Sakhnin, following extortion-related shootings, served as a catalyst for broader protests.
What was the estimated attendance at the rally?
Organizers estimated that approximately 40,000 Jewish and Arab protesters attended the rally in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square.
What were the key demands of the protesters?
Protesters demanded increased personal security, an end to organized crime, and action from law enforcement to break up criminal organizations and solve murder cases in Arab society. Some also called for the removal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.
As this coalition of protesters demonstrates a unified front, it remains to be seen whether this momentum will translate into sustained political action and concrete changes in government policy.
