Sheetrit attempted to promote integration and equality, but was hamstrung by the Military Government, which controlled most Arab areas after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, as well as Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, who vetoed Sheetrit's proposal for an Arab advisory council in the ministry.

[2] Following its closure, Arab-related matters were handled by an advisor on Arab affairs in the Prime Minister's Office.

During the unity governments that lasted from 1984 until 1990, responsibility for Israeli Arab affairs was given to a Minister without Portfolio; Ezer Weizman (Yahad/Alignment), Moshe Arens (Likud) and Ehud Olmert (Likud).

During the 27th government, Matan Vilnai served as Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Arab-Israeli affairs.

In the current government Avishay Braverman, a Minister without Portfolio, was also responsible for Minorities Affairs until 17 January 2011 when he resigned.