Police Increase Security for Israeli Election Committee Chair Amid Threats

Israeli police have significantly increased security for Supreme Court Justice Noam Sohlberg, who also serves as the chairman of the Central Elections Committee. The enhanced protection, which began in recent days, comes in response to threats and protests directed at Sohlberg related to his role in the elections and his stances on the conscription of Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) men into the military.

The decision to bolster security follows a series of serious incidents. On June 3rd, dozens of rioters targeted Sohlberg's home in Alon Shvut, breaking windows, damaging the entrance, and throwing flyers depicting Sohlberg with a swastika superimposed on Israeli flags. Sixty-three individuals, some of whom were yeshiva students classified as draft dodgers, were arrested in connection with the disturbance.

Sohlberg's actions as Elections Committee chairman have also drawn controversy. He recently disqualified a campaign video by the Shas party and issued a ruling prohibiting the sharing of voter arrival information with polling stations. Furthermore, his involvement as Deputy President of the Supreme Court in rulings concerning Haredi conscription has sparked intense opposition from the Haredi public.

In July, a meeting was held at the President's Residence, initiated by Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, involving President Isaac Herzog, Justice Sohlberg, and Bar. The discussion focused on ensuring cooperation among all bodies to guarantee a proper, fair, and secure election process. President Herzog emphasized the importance of election integrity as a top national challenge and expressed support for the Elections Committee.