Nearly three-quarters of Arab-Israelis want new political leadership ahead of elections, poll finds

Nearly three-quarters of Arab respondents feel their community desperately requires new public figures and political leadership to represent it, according to a survey released Wednesday. The findings come as divisions deepen within Arab politics ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections.

The Afkar Institute poll, which surveyed 402 participants from the Arab sector, revealed that 74% believe new leadership is urgently needed to meet community expectations. This sentiment suggests criticism may extend beyond the specific actions of Arab parties to encompass the figures within the existing political establishment.

Confidence in political leadership appears to be declining significantly. The survey found that 64% of respondents strongly or very strongly agreed that their personal trust in public and political figures is lower than in the past. This trend is also evident among younger Arab society members, with 61% stating the younger generation is less willing to trust those in public office.

The survey's findings, published amidst ongoing discussions about whether Arab parties will run together or separately in the elections, could significantly influence the campaign. The crisis of confidence highlighted in the poll may become a crucial factor in voter turnout and the current leadership's ability to rally public support.