In recent months, allegations of sexual harassment against Hadash politician Jafar Farah have brought renewed attention to the evolving discourse on sexual violence within Arab society in Israel. The controversy, which intensified ahead of the current Knesset elections, has highlighted ongoing challenges faced by women in confronting harassment, as well as the growing role of feminist organizations in advocating for accountability.

The issue first came to wider public attention in 2019 during a campaign called Every Day a Testimony, which sought to expose sexual misconduct by public figures. Farah, who serves as director general of the Mossawa Center for Arab Citizens’ Rights and held the No. 2 spot on Hadash’s Knesset slate, was named in testimonies by several women alleging harassment. Despite the claims, he remained active in public life until renewed allegations surfaced this year as part of the Harasser – Resign campaign, initiated by the Nazareth-based Women Against Violence association and Al-Siwar – Arab Feminist Movement.

The recent public outcry prompted Hadash to establish a committee to investigate the allegations. Following multiple reports, Farah announced his withdrawal from the party’s slate, a move seen by some activists as a significant albeit delayed step toward addressing sexual harassment within Arab society.

The controversy has underscored the cultural and social barriers Arab women face when reporting sexual violence. Activists point to what they describe as a “double oppression”: victims are marginalized both as Arabs and as survivors of sexual offenses. Fear of social stigma, family repercussions, and insufficient protection from state institutions often silence women. Cases have been reported in which women attempting to file complaints encountered police harassment or false arrests, further discouraging disclosure.

In response, feminist groups have taken on a crucial role in offering legal, psychological, and social support while amplifying victims’ voices. Organizations like Women Against Violence and Al-Siwar, both founded in the 1990s, have long worked to raise awareness through education and advocacy. Recent campaigns emphasize removing accused individuals from public positions and fostering societal discourse on the issue, regardless of political timing.

Some observers characterize the current developments as a historic shift comparable to a “Palestinian MeToo,” reflecting broader transformations occurring across the Arab world and within Israeli society. Dr. Rawia Aburabia, a law lecturer and feminist activist, noted that the breaking of the “code of silence” marks a major cultural change, contrasting with earlier years when similar allegations did not lead to significant consequences.

However, critics caution that progress remains insufficient. Independent journalist Salim Salameh, who has long campaigned against sexual violence in Arab society, expressed disappointment with the response from political parties and Arab media, saying the issue gained traction mainly after coverage in Hebrew outlets. Salameh described ongoing social media debates in which victims and advocates face attacks, while some portray the accusations as politically motivated attempts to undermine Arab representation.

Farah’s attempt to reenter public office reignited scrutiny of his actions, prompting debate over the responsibilities of politicians and voters in holding candidates accountable. Advocates emphasize the heavy personal toll on accusers, who often endure public abuse and see their alleged harassers maintain political platforms. The question of who constitutes “the public” drew particular emphasis, highlighting the exclusion many women feel from political and social spheres.

Despite criticisms of Hadash’s initial handling of the case, some activists acknowledge the party’s eventual step to examine the allegations as progress, noting that other political groups have yet to address similar claims publicly.

The ongoing controversy has also led to increased outreach to support organizations, with many survivors reaching out for assistance. Advocates stress the importance of sustaining public dialogue to foster change and ensure that victims can seek help without fear of reprisal or marginalization.