Surge in Drug‑Related Violence Targets Arab Citizens A wave of criminal activity aimed at Israel’s Arab minority has intensified, forcing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to confront its role and accountability in the crisis, according to historian Jean‑Pierre Filiu. The violence is linked to drug trafficking networks that specifically exploit Arab neighborhoods, raising domestic political stakes. The article, dated 22 February 2026, highlights the urgency of governmental response [1].

Historical Shift After 1967 Enabled Trafficking Networks Prior to the 1967 occupation, Israeli society largely avoided drug trafficking, stigmatizing hashish as an Arab vice. Post‑1967, a US‑inspired psychedelic culture emerged, connecting Israeli drug pilgrimages to India with mandatory military service. This cultural shift created a conduit for illicit substances to flow into the country, laying groundwork for today’s crisis [1].

Lebanese Hashish Influx Fueled by 1982 Invasion The 1982 Israeli incursion into Lebanon linked Lebanese production zones to the Israeli market, resulting in an estimated 700 tonnes of illegal hashish imported the following year. This surge dramatically expanded the supply chain feeding the current wave of violence. The article ties this historical influx to the present‑day targeting of Arab communities [1].

Security Personnel Occasionally Compromised in Cross‑Border Routes Israeli officers have been implicated in transnational drug routes, prompting periodic dismantling of these networks by security forces. Such compromises underscore challenges within law‑enforcement agencies to curb the trafficking that fuels community violence. The piece notes recurring investigations and arrests of compromised personnel [1].

Hezbollah Involvement Prompted Tighter Crackdowns Until 2000 The pro‑Iranian militia’s participation in trafficking spurred intensified Israeli crackdowns, which persisted until Israel’s 2000 withdrawal from Lebanon. Hezbollah’s role amplified the scale of the drug trade and heightened security concerns. The article emphasizes how militia involvement shaped policy responses [1].

Drug Pilgrimages Linked to Mandatory Military Service Young Israelis often undertake drug pilgrimages to India between completing mandatory service (three years for men, two for women) and entering civilian employment. These journeys have become a cultural rite of passage, further entrenching drug use within certain segments of society. The analysis connects this pattern to the broader escalation of drug‑related violence [1].