IsraeliPalestinian

IsraeliPalestinian is a non-formal descriptor used in public discourse to refer to people who identify with both Israeli and Palestinian identities, or to populations in Israel with Palestinian heritage. It can describe individuals who view themselves as Palestinian and hold Israeli citizenship, as well as broader groups that navigate the cultural and political space between Israeli and Palestinian national narratives. In scholarly and media contexts, the term highlights overlapping identities rather than a single, homogeneous group.

Demographics and background: In Israel, Arab citizens who identify as Palestinian or Palestinian-Israeli number about 1.9 million, roughly one-fifth of the population. They include Muslims, Christians, and Druze, with Arabic commonly spoken alongside Hebrew for civic life. Many live in Arab-majority towns and villages, while others reside in mixed cities or Israeli urban centers. Their historical roots trace to Palestinians who remained within the borders of the new state in 1948 and later acquired Israeli citizenship.

Identity, language, and culture: Palestinian heritage remains central for many Israeli-Palestinians, informing family life, culture, and collective memory. Some identify primarily as Palestinian, others as Israeli, and many describe themselves as Palestinian citizens of Israel or Arab Israelis. Arabic and Hebrew are used in education, media, and public life, and cultural production—literature, music, and art—often reflects a dual heritage and ongoing engagement with Palestinian national narratives.

Politics and rights: They enjoy formal citizenship and voting rights but face socioeconomic and structural inequalities in housing, budgeting, and public services. Representation in the Israeli legislature has included Arab parties and cross-communal coalitions, such as the Joint List. Debates over loyalty, national identity, and solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict influence attitudes toward state institutions and civic participation.