Arab council demands end to community violence
In light of increased gun violence in many Arab cities and villages across Israel, Arab representatives are looking to traditional forms of conflict mediation to stem violence against the community.
Adnan Jarushi, head of the Sulha Committee (a committee for traditional conflict mediation), made the announcement at the home of MK Dr. Ahmad Tibi in Tayibe.
"Whoever uses a weapon against his society will be branded a traitor to his public," said Jarushi. "To murder someone is a serious betrayal of the population. It is time to take steps to stop the shooting and violence."
Tibi commented on the announcement, saying, "Crime, violence and shooting – all of these frighten people in public places in Arab communities and they are terrible. Today, I hosted two quarrelling families in my home in Tayibe in order to prevent bloodshed. Together with the Sulha Committee, I have always been willing to do anything to avoid blood feuds and to stop these conflicts."
Tibi added that from the year 2000, nearly 1,200 people have been killed in internal conflicts and violence in Arab society.
"We cry to stop this bloodshed. The police have their role and we have ours. I have made legislation on this subject and we are carrying out our internal duties, but this is not enough. The weapons must be collected. Enough with the violence and killing. These weapons are killing us all," said Tibi.
(Translated and edited by Fred Goldberg)
