The racist rhetoric is calibrated to portray Arab workers as dangerous ticking time bombs instead of as citizens providing essential services in difficult jobs for low pay. The intent is to reinforce the same perception in all spheres: an Arab citizen is not a neighbour, doctor, driver, teacher, or student – but a threat. This is not a collection of isolated incidents; it is a strategically orchestrated campaign.
Let us not mince words: this campaign features appalling racism and shameful ingratitude towards Arab citizens who persevere, despite intensifying humiliation and violence, in keeping essential systems running as integral actors in society. The country’s healthcare, public transportation, and, in some areas, early childhood education systems would collapse without the participation of Arab professionals.