Tibi Rejects Coalition Role and Backs Replacing Knesset Speaker

Joint List chairman MK Ahmad Tibi has ruled out joining Israel's governing coalition while offering conditional support from outside the government, outlining his party's position on coalition formation and efforts to address issues affecting Arab communities in Israel.

Speaking in a Meet the Press interview on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Tibi said the party would remain outside the government. He also indicated that its approach would be intended to facilitate the coalition-building process.

"We will not be a part of the government," Tibi said, explaining that he and his fellow party members want to make the coalition process "easier, not harder."

Tibi also confirmed that the Joint List supports replacing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana. He said he would oppose any constructive motions of no confidence introduced by Likud against a potential government.

The party's position also includes a commitment to support the Knesset from outside the governing coalition in exchange for agreements addressing issues affecting Arab society.

According to Tibi, the proposed agreements would include measures to tackle crime in Arab communities and recognition of Bedouin villages. He also said he would not initiate legislation aimed at dissolving the Knesset.

The proposal follows an announcement on Sunday outlining a two-stage plan. The initiative calls for supporting an alternative government from outside the coalition in exchange for commitments addressing the needs of Arab society.