Israel's Arabs and Jews must redefine their relationship Opinion: Despite deep-rooted animosity towards each other, Israelis of both sectors must create a social contract to change long-held paradigms that have proven to be nothing but obstacles for peace and prosperity for all Michael Milshtein | Published: 03.15.21 , 00:22 While the relationship between Israel and its Arab citizens has been spotty ever since the establishment of the state in 1948, the last two years have proven that this somewhat undefined relationship cannot continue as is. In the past, the Arab population was content with being a silent sector. Today though, many members of the community want to have a real say in the country’s decision-making process, despite being painfully aware of the fact that Israel is first and foremost a Jewish state.