Jerusalem, 8 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Following the rising violence and crime in Arab society, President Isaac Herzog convened the heads of the Negev authorities for an emergency discussion.
The conference is taking place against the backdrop of the “New Order” police operation, which was born as part of the fight against violence and crime in Arab society, and it emphasizes significant enforcement and an increased police presence in Bedouin communities in the Negev.
The purpose of the conference is to jointly examine the solution to the issue of the lack of a sense of security for both Jewish and Arab residents in the Negev, and to hear the voices of elected officials in the Negev in all its forms.
“The situation in the Negev is a national emergency. It is impossible that since the beginning of January, 11 Arab citizens have been murdered in the State of Israel,” said Herzog. Stop and think about this number, 11 citizens! This is an unimaginable figure. This is a national disaster and a national challenge. The Arab citizens of Israel are entitled to live in complete security, just like their Jewish brothers and sisters. Israeli law must apply in all authorities, and it is our duty not only to establish it, but also to enforce it.”