A general strike was observed today, Tuesday, March 10 across all Arab authorities across Israel in the 1948 Territories, except for emergency services, following the “dangerous escalation” of violence and crime plaguing Arab Palestinian towns in the country.

The High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens held an emergency meeting yesterday afternoon at the Arraba Municipality building, following the shooting that wounded Arraba Mayor Dr. Ahmed Nassar and deputy mayor and head of the Popular Committee, Dr. Anwar Yassin (Hadash).

Demonstration against crime and murder in Sakhnin, February 22, 2026 (Photo: Al-Ittihad)

Representatives from the National Committee of Heads of Arab Local Authorities participated in the meeting, along with representatives from political parties and movements, leaders from the Arraba Municipality and the city’s Popular Committee, as well as activists from various community organizations.

During the meeting, participants discussed ways to address the escalating violence and crime, particularly after the attack targeting local leaders in the city. It was agreed to adopt proposals to declare a general strike in Arab local authorities, in addition to the general strike in Arraba.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Follow-Up Committee affirmed its commitment to continuing protest activities, including organizing marches and demonstrations.

Arab towns in Israel are witnessing daily protests against the escalating crime rate and in condemnation of the complicity of the authorities and police, in addition to sit-ins and demonstrations in various towns and intersections.

The year 2025 saw an unprecedented number of murders, with 252 citizens killed, amid accusations of Israeli police inaction and collusion with organized crime, and their failure to provide security and safety for Arab citizens.

Related: https://maki.org.il/en/?p=33276