Mansour Abbas willing to recognize Hamas as terrorist group for coalition

Ra'am leader Mansour Abbas has indicated a willingness to formally recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization in exchange for a genuine coalition partnership with Gadi Eisenkot's political bloc. This potential shift marks a change from Abbas's previous position, where he had avoided such a declaration due to reported threats to his personal safety and family.

Recognition of Hamas is reportedly one of four conditions set by Eisenkot for parties seeking to join his opposition bloc. While Abbas has not commented directly on the ongoing negotiations, Democratic leader Yair Golan expressed optimism, suggesting that formal declarations would likely emerge as a result of continued talks.

Ra'am has previously condemned Hamas attacks and expressed support for the dismantling of Hamas within the framework of peace plans. Meanwhile, Avigdor Liberman has stated he will not support a minority government that relies on the support of two Arab parties in the Knesset.