Tel aviv: Arab Israeli lawmaker Ayman Odeh expressed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces significant political challenges and is unlikely to secure a victory in the anticipated upcoming elections. Odeh, who leads the Arab-Jewish Hadash-Ta'al Party, discussed these insights during an interview with Anadolu.
According to Anadolu Agency, Odeh emphasized Netanyahu's previous electoral successes were not solely due to his political prowess but were influenced by regional dynamics and support from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Odeh believes Netanyahu will struggle to secure the necessary 60 seats to form a government in the next election. He highlighted the potential impact of Arab voter turnout, which he argues could hinder Netanyahu's ability to establish the next government. Arab citizens constitute over 20% of Israel's population, making their participation crucial in shaping the election outcome.
Odeh anticipates early elections, despite the current Knesset term officially ending in late 2026. He revealed ongoing discussions among Arab parties to unify before the elections, asserting that such unity could increase their representation in the Knesset. Odeh underscored the importance of each seat in preventing the far-right from governing, especially in light of recent events in Gaza.
Currently, four Arab parties participate in Israeli elections: Hadash, Ta'al, Balad, and Ra'am. Odeh mentioned that advanced talks with Balad are underway to form a joint list, similar to the successful Joint List that previously secured 15 seats. However, differences with Ra'am persist, though Odeh extended an invitation for them to join the unified effort.
Odeh predicts the current Knesset's winter session will be the last before early elections. He warned that the far-right government might exploit this session to push through controversial legislation, including efforts to reduce Palestinian representation in the Knesset. Odeh criticized the lack of a principled opposition to Netanyahu's government, calling for alliances even with distant opposition parties to prevent the continuation of what he described as fascist rule.
Odeh expressed concerns about the growing extremism within Israel's leadership and institutions, which he believes poses a threat to Arab citizens. He cited recent polls indicating significant support among Israeli Jews for the expulsion of Arab citizens, highlighting the urgent need for political action to prevent such outcomes.
Regarding the Gaza conflict, Odeh attributed its end to Palestinian resilience and international solidarity. He expressed skepticism about Netanyahu's intentions concerning the ceasefire deal, particularly regarding the mention of a Palestinian state. Odeh suspects Netanyahu may attempt to undermine the agreement to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state encompassing Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.
Odeh warned of potential settlement expansions, particularly in the E1 area east of Jerusalem, which could become a focal point in the coming months. He concluded by emphasizing Netanyahu's long-term strategy to target the West Bank and weaken the Palestinian Authority, which could undermine the prospects for a Palestinian state.