Campaign by Netanyahu against Arabs 'racist' - Eisenkot

Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has accused incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of fueling a racist campaign against the Arab minority in Israel. In a rare public stand for Arab Israelis, Eisenkot denounced the community's politicians being linked to Hamas, a rare instance of a prominent Jewish political figure defending the Arab population that constitutes over 20% of the nation.

Two Arab-majority parties, Raam and the Joint List, garnered 19 seats in the most recent election, potentially wielding significant influence in forming a government. Eisenkot emphasized that Arab citizens are integral to Israel's narrative and denounced the racist and aggressive campaign targeting them, branding it a violation of civic responsibility.

Netanyahu and his allies have frequently criticized Arab party leaders for not identifying Hamas as a terror group following its October 7, 2023, attack, despite all condemning the assault. Netanyahu has also alleged electoral fraud by Arab parties, a claim rejected by electoral authorities. During a recent speech, Netanyahu expressed disappointment that the two Arab lists refuse to recognize Israel as a Jewish state, accusing them of seeking to establish either an Islamic state or a nationalist Palestinian state.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir further incited by heckling Joint List leader Youssef Jabareen during his oath of allegiance, alleging Hamas allegiance. President Isaac Herzog appointed Eisenkot to form a new government after consultations with various political parties, including the two Arab lists. However, right-wing ally Avigdor Liberman has pledged to withdraw from the coalition if Arab Israelis are included.

If Eisenkot fails to form a government within 28 days, he may request a 14-day extension; otherwise, the mandate will pass to another politician, likely Netanyahu.