Palestinian citizens of Israel are descendants of those who were not expelled or forced to flee their homes when Israel was established in 1948. Ammar Awad/ReutersAttendees told CNN it was the largest demonstration the Arab community has seen in years, culminating a multi-day general strike from shop owners. “If you look at the Palestinian Arab community in Israel, how many are being killed daily and for no reason?” Awad said. Like many others in his community, Awad believes the Israeli government intentionally neglects crime perpetrated against Palestinian citizens. The Mosawa Center, a group advocating equal rights for Palestinian citizens, called it a “dangerous political step” that would do nothing to combat crime.

Source: CNN February 15, 2026 14:50 UTC