Arab-Israeli Leaders Oppose New 'Jewish Nation-State' Law 

Arab members of the Israeli Parliament literally tore up a new law that officially describes the country as a “Jewish nation-state.” Some were even escorted out of the Knesset, the country’s national legislature, because the law incited so much rage. One Parliament member said that the bill would constitute apartheid for Israeli Arabs.  

The bill ends Arabic’s status as an official language alongside Hebrew. It also reiterates that Jerusalem is considered Israel’s capital and states that building Jewish settlements has “national value.”

“The nationality bill is a hate crime, they are totally discriminating against the Arab citizens, against the Arab minority, with racist articles, especially those of Jewish settlements, and those articles downgrading the status of the Arabic language,” explained Israeli Arab lawmaker Ahmad Tibi.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government backs the law, which has been in discussion since 2011. He has stated in the past that Palestinians must recognize Israel as a Jewish nation-state before any peace agreements move forward.  

Roughly 20% of the country’s population is Arab, and that number is growing. But the Arab population in the area is facing increased scrutiny, military persecution, and violence — making it more difficult for marginalized individuals to have their voices heard.  

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