This data highlights a concerning rise in murder rates, particularly within Arab communities, and provides insights into the distribution of these crimes and the identity of female victims. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns, 2020 saw an increase in Arab murders compared to previous years. Although there was a slight decrease in 2022 due to the Bennett-Lapid government's crime reduction efforts, the trend reversed with the return of the Netanyahu government. As of August 23, 2024, 149 murders have been reported in Arab communities.
The data from 2018-2023 also details where these murders occurred: 134 of the 229 murders in the northern region happened in Haifa. The central region had 176 murders, the south had 44, Jerusalem had 36, and Tel Aviv had 31. Additionally, 61 cases occurred in unspecified locations, mainly intercity roads, and one murder took place in the West Bank.
Shahira Shelbi, co-CEO of the Abraham Initiative, commented on the situation, noting that mixed cities have high crime rates due to neglect and discrimination. She pointed out that crime families originating from these cities have evolved over time.
Most of the murder victims in Arab society from 2018 to 2023 were men (630), but 82 Arab women were also killed, compared to 56 Jewish women. The highest number of female victims was in northern Israel, particularly Haifa, with Nof HaGalil reporting more female victims than male. In central Israel, 23 women were murdered, and 6 in the south.
Shelbi observed that while traditional honor-related murders have decreased, new patterns have emerged. Women are increasingly victims of hired killings, revenge murders, or violence linked to criminal activities. Some women involved in drugs or weapons are targeted similarly to men in these activities.
The Israel Police stated that efforts to combat violence in Arab society involve targeting criminal organizations through arrests, property seizures, and legal actions. However, they emphasized that addressing violence requires more than police intervention. A comprehensive approach involving changes within Arab communities—such as improvements in education, cultural shifts, cooperation with law enforcement, and strong leadership—are essential for meaningful change.
