Israel Police Prepare for Elections Amid Security Concerns and PM's Request
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Israel Police are mobilizing over 20,000 officers for the upcoming elections, prioritizing security against potential terror attacks at polling stations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked for "special attention" to be paid to extreme left-wing activists, citing concerns about their activities. Despite no concrete threats of widespread disturbances, police are on high alert due to the ongoing security situation. The Election Committee chairman approved a meeting between the Prime Minister and the Police Commissioner to discuss public order, excluding election integrity.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Over 20,000 police officers will secure Israeli elections amid terror attack fears.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu requested "special attention" for extreme left-wing activists.
- Police are on high alert for potential terror attacks at polling stations.
- No concrete threats of widespread disturbances have been identified.
- A meeting between the PM and Police Commissioner was approved on public order.
- An extremist left-wing group "HaGideonim" is under police scrutiny.
Israeli police are gearing up for one of their largest security operations for the upcoming Knesset elections, with a primary concern being a potential terror attack at polling stations. Over 20,000 police officers and thousands of security guards will be deployed, supported by intelligence and investigation units monitoring the democratic process. While no specific threats of widespread disturbances or attacks have been identified, police acknowledge existing alerts and the ongoing "special situation in the home front and active war."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed "concern" about potential actions by extreme left-wing activists, particularly a group called "HaGideonim," and requested "special attention" from the police on this matter. This concern was raised during a meeting with Police Commissioner Danny Levi, which was initially opposed by Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara but later permitted by Election Committee Chairman Noam Sohlberg, provided election integrity was not discussed.
The "HaGideonim" group has stated its aim is to physically protect the Knesset from right-wing attempts to undermine democratic procedures and has vowed to block Netanyahu at his residence. The Prime Minister's office declined to comment on the report.
Police are also preparing for potential disruptions, violence, and attempts to compromise election integrity. The investigations and intelligence department is handling cases of incitement, with one arrest made of a reservist who threatened the Prime Minister. The police are also ready to counter potential road blockades by Haredi protesters with a zero-tolerance policy.
In addition to security threats, police are planning for post-election scenarios, including increased activity in the West Bank and the deployment of elite units like Yamam and HaGideonim to respond to emerging incidents. The national control center will coordinate efforts with other security and emergency agencies, including the Shin Bet. Police are emphasizing their commitment to ensuring a secure and safe voting process for all citizens.
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