Israel Prepares for Election Day Threats from Terrorism to Flooding

With less than 24 hours until polls open for the 26th Knesset elections, Israeli security forces are finalizing extensive preparations to counter a range of threats that could disrupt the democratic process. These include security concerns, foreign interference attempts, and severe weather conditions.

Boaz Bismuth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, warned that "Israel's enemies will try to harm on election day," but assured that the security establishment is on high alert to prevent any attacks on public safety or the voting process. The preparations address scenarios such as missile attacks, alarms, and surprise assaults during voting hours. The police conducted a war game simulating these emergencies, including troop deployment, civilian evacuation, and maintaining polling station operations under duress.

Approximately 20,000 police officers, Border Police officers, and volunteers will be deployed across the country to prevent attacks, disturbances, voter intimidation, and election fraud. The police are also preparing for potential road blockades and traffic disruptions, particularly after the results are announced. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir met with Police Commissioner Dani Levi to discuss intelligence assessments and potential disruptions, with Levi assuring that any attempts to interfere with election day would be treated severely.

The Shin Bet (General Security Service) has also been active, thwarting a foreign influence operation on social media aimed at swaying public opinion and undermining election integrity. In collaboration with the State Prosecutor's Office Cyber Division and the Central Elections Committee, numerous accounts spreading manipulative content were identified and removed. Authorities are also preparing for the spread of misinformation and the use of artificial intelligence to mislead voters.

In addition to security threats, severe weather is expected to pose a challenge, particularly in the southern region. Heavy rains, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds are forecast, with a significant risk of flash floods that could lead to road closures and impede voter access to polling stations. Southern police are already preparing to block major routes, including those to and from Eilat, and the public is advised to avoid non-essential travel in the affected areas.

A special emergency procedure has been developed by the Central Elections Committee for missile attacks during voting or vote counting. Ballots will be counted on special material that can be quickly folded for evacuation to protected areas. Protected spaces have also been prepared at polling sites and the Knesset, where results are processed. The Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Sohlberg, holds the authority to halt or cancel voting in specific areas or nationwide in consultation with security officials, should a significant security escalation occur. The police aim to reassure the public, with Commissioner Levi stating, "We will not allow violence, threats, incitement, or criminality to harm the voters' will."