Ungrateful and Arrogant Arab Attitudes Towards Israel Shouldn’t Be Rewarded with Political Praise and Social Security

The recent release of Bedouin hostage Farhan al-Qadi from Gaza raises troubling questions about loyalty and gratitude. Al-Qadi, reportedly kidnapped and held by Hamas, expressed views that contradict the very essence of Israeli citizenship. If he does not see himself as Israeli, despite enjoying all the benefits and protection that come with it, then he should feel free to relocate back to Gaza or any of the 22 Arab countries that would happily welcome him.

Al-Qadi is a father of 11 children, each supported by the Israeli social security system. This enormous financial burden falls squarely on Israeli taxpayers—many of whom have children themselves and are already weighed down by high taxes. Should taxpayers really be expected to fund the livelihood of someone who shows open disdain for the country that feeds, educates, and shelters his family? This question becomes even more pressing when considering the lengths to which Israel went to secure his release.

Al-Qadi was abducted on October 7, 2023, from Kibbutz Magen near the Gaza border, where he worked as a security guard. He was taken during a shock assault by Hamas terrorists, which led to nearly 1,200 Israeli deaths. To bring him home, hundreds of IDF soldiers risked their lives, combing through Gaza’s complex and dangerous tunnel network. In a conversation following his rescue, al-Qadi told the Israeli troops, “You have no idea what Gaza looks like.” The considerable risk these soldiers faced highlights the irony and the tragedy of the situation: risking Israeli lives for an individual who may not even identify as Israeli.

The Broader Issue: Disloyalty Among Israeli Arabs and Muslims

Al-Qadi’s case is not isolated. Across Israel, there are numerous individuals within the Arab and Muslim communities who openly voice their contempt for the state while simultaneously enjoying its benefits. This dichotomy is unsustainable and must be addressed. Those who do not identify as Israeli and openly support hostile entities should be invited to leave the country. If al-Qadi and others like him prefer Gaza’s governance, let them live under it, away from the freedoms and rights they take for granted in Israel.

In his own words, al-Qadi expressed a desire for an end to the hostage crisis, saying, “The place I was in — I wouldn’t wish on anybody. So do everything — demonstrations, everything — to get the people home.” Yet, this call for compassion does not erase the fact that his rescue endangered the lives of Israeli soldiers and incurred significant state resources. Why should a nation be expected to expend such resources on those who do not identify with it? Israeli Arabs and Muslims who view themselves not as Israelis but as Palestinians—or who support actions against Israel—have plenty of alternatives. They can move to Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, or any other Arab country. Europe and the United States also have Muslim communities that might align more closely with their ideological beliefs. By remaining in Israel and expressing disloyalty, they undermine the state’s security and social fabric.

Taxpayer Money Should Go to Loyal Citizens

Israel’s social security and welfare systems are designed to help those who are loyal, contributing members of society. They are not meant to support individuals who do not respect the country, its values, and its existence. Al-Qadi’s son, Saleh, expressed the family’s joy at his return, saying, “His return to us was the most delightful surprise of [my] entire life. Now we’ll have a ball, and bring back to dad the happiness and good feelings that he lost over the past months.” But happiness for some should not come at the cost of security and well-being for others. Those who benefit from Israel’s resources while undermining its sovereignty should not expect indefinite support. A clear message must be sent: loyalty to the state is non-negotiable. If you don’t consider yourself Israeli, you don’t have to live in Israel.

Time for a Clear Policy Shift

Israel must establish policies that address this growing issue of disloyalty. The state should enact legislation that conditions citizenship and social benefits on loyalty oaths, public demonstrations of allegiance, and active contributions to society. For those unwilling to comply, repatriation programs should be explored. It’s a simple choice: embrace your identity as an Israeli citizen or find a place that better suits your worldview.

Conclusion

The time for tiptoeing around the issue of disloyalty among Israeli Arabs and Muslims is over. If individuals like Farhan al-Qadi don’t see themselves as Israelis, they should take their leave. Loyalty should be the currency of citizenship. The Israeli state has been more than generous; now it’s time for those who take to start giving back, or to go elsewhere.