As the results of Israel’s recent elections began to take shape late Tuesday, celebrations broke out in Taibe, a predominantly Arab town in central Israel. Fireworks lit the sky as residents, energized by the success of Israel’s two main Arab-led parties, Raam and the Joint List, gathered in the streets. Both parties are projected to secure their highest-ever number of seats in the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, marking a significant political moment for Arab citizens.
Taibe, home to approximately 47,500 people, saw voter turnout exceed 80 percent, reflecting widespread enthusiasm among the local Arab population. “We should now translate that result into making real improvements in our lives,” said Amir Hajj Yahya, 30, who was among those celebrating. The mood was one of cautious optimism, as many hoped the increased parliamentary presence could bring greater recognition and resources to Arab communities across Israel.
Despite the celebrations in Taibe, reactions across the broader Israeli political landscape were more reserved and at times hostile. Several opposition figures quickly ruled out forming alliances with Arab parties, and commentators warned against allowing these groups influence over key areas such as security and foreign policy. This response has deepened feelings among many Arab citizens of exclusion and discrimination.
“This reaction is proof of racist attitudes we’re facing,” said Shadi Hajj Yahya, a 34-year-old truck driver from Taibe. Similarly, lawyer Noreen al-Nashef, 52, expressed frustration with what she called a dismissive response from other sectors of Israeli society. “What value does my vote have?” she asked, voicing concerns that the election outcome might not translate into meaningful political power or change.
Taibe reflects broader challenges confronting Israel’s Arab communities, including issues like gun violence and home demolitions by Israeli authorities of structures built without permits. Local officials contend that obtaining building permissions is often difficult, contributing to tensions. The town’s residents have also been troubled by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s campaign rhetoric, which they viewed as inflammatory toward Arab citizens. Netanyahu had accused armed Israelis of attempting to “steal the election,” a remark that heightened anxieties.
High Arab voter turnout nationwide was widely interpreted in Taibe as an effort to remove Netanyahu and his far-right coalition from power. Many hope a new government would address longstanding grievances, not only within Arab Israeli communities but also concerning Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, amid ongoing Israeli settler violence.
Despite skepticism from some quarters, residents expressed a belief that political dynamics might evolve. “When they need the Arabs, they’ll come to us,” said Reda Hajj Yahya, 40, reflecting cautious hope that Arab parties could become kingmakers in future coalition negotiations.
Most voters in Taibe supported the Joint List, an alliance of three smaller parties encompassing both a Jewish-Arab leftist faction and a Palestinian nationalist faction. The Joint List has historically held a marginal role in Israeli politics and has been more openly critical of Zionism than Raam, the other main Arab party. Still, leaders of the Joint List are now engaging with opposition parties to try to unseat Netanyahu’s government. Veteran Knesset member Ahmad Tibi, 67, a prominent figure within the alliance, said they are prepared to make significant concessions to facilitate a change in power, emphasizing the willingness to compromise short of abandoning their core identity.
Community members expressed desires for improved living conditions and security. Ashraf Jaber, 51, who sat near a traffic roundabout adorned with Joint List banners, spoke of hopes for an end to violence and conflict. Referring to the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas militants that triggered the Gaza war, he said Taibe residents seek a dignified life for all Israelis—Jews and Arabs alike—and view the election results as an opportunity to advance that goal. “We need to take advantage of it,” he said.