Joint List Unveils 2026 Platform Demanding Gaza War End and Netanyahu's Ouster
The Joint List presented its 2026 election manifesto, demanding an end to the war in Gaza, Palestinian statehood, and the repeal of the Nation-State Law while prioritizing the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Joint List presented its election manifesto for 2026 on Tuesday, titled "2030: A Safety Net for Our Society," outlining a platform that combines socio-economic demands with sharp political and national positions regarding the Palestinian issue and the ongoing conflict.
Core Political and National Demands
The political chapter of the manifesto centers on ending the war in Gaza, halting military operations, and lifting the blockade. The list calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, alongside Israel. Additionally, the platform demands the implementation of the right of return for Palestinian refugees based on UN resolutions, including Resolution 194.
Prof. Yousef Jabareen, chairman of the Joint List, emphasized during the press conference that the vision aims to offer a democratic alternative for all citizens. "We are bringing change and hope to all populations in Israel, both Jews and Arabs," Jabareen said. He underscored that civic equality and social justice must be accompanied by a genuine push for peace and Palestinian statehood.
Civil Rights and Opposition to the Nation-State Law
The manifesto demands the repeal of the Nation-State Law, the Kaminitz Law, the Nakba Law, and the NGO Law, which the party argues promote systemic discrimination and Jewish supremacy. It also calls for full collective and national rights for the Arab minority in Israel, alongside absolute civic equality. Furthermore, the list maintains its opposition to mandatory military and national service, favoring voluntary community work.
Tackling Crime and Social Disparities
A significant portion of the platform focuses on daily hardships within Arab society, prominently addressing violent crime, illegal weapons, and protection rackets. The Joint List demands decisive government intervention to dismantle crime syndicates while protecting threatened individuals. In the economic sphere, the party proposes raising the minimum wage to at least 70% of the national average, closing municipal funding gaps, and halting home demolitions in Arab localities.
Political Strategy and Replacing the Government
Addressing the upcoming elections, MK Ahmad Tibi stated that removing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from power remains a top priority. "Our most urgent task right now is to topple the government of Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir, and Smotrich," Tibi declared, acknowledging that while an alternative coalition might not be a dream government, it is a necessary step away from the current right-wing leadership. Balad leader Sami Abu Shehadeh also spoke at the event, condemning alleged systemic persecution against Arab citizens and urging voters to utilize the ballot box to enact profound change.
