Reports of Vandalized Ballots Surface Amid Israeli Elections
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
During Israel's 26th Knesset elections, reports surfaced of Likud ballots in Ashkelon and Netanya defaced with scribbles and "B'sd," potentially invalidating votes. Channel 14's Mati Tuchfeld warned this was a left-wing tactic to disqualify right-wing votes. Voters are advised to check ballots for markings and request clean ones from polling officials.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Likud ballots in Ashkelon and Netanya were reportedly defaced with scribbles and "B'sd" during elections.
- These markings could lead to the invalidation of votes during the counting process.
- Channel 14's Mati Tuchfeld warned of a "B'sd trap" aimed at disqualifying right-wing votes.
- Voters are urged to inspect ballots for any markings before submitting them.
- Voters discovering defaced ballots should request clean ones from polling committee members.
Reports have emerged from polling stations in Ashkelon and Netanya during the 26th Knesset elections on Tuesday, indicating that some Likud party ballots have been defaced with scribbles and the inscription "B'ezrat Hashem" (B'sd). Such markings could lead to the invalidation of votes during the counting process. It remains unclear who is responsible for the vandalism or if it is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise Likud voters.
These reports follow a warning issued by Mati Tuchfeld, the Political Desk Chief for Channel 14 News, who highlighted a potential "B'sd trap." Tuchfeld revealed social media calls urging religious and traditional voters to add the inscription "B'sd" to their ballots, asserting this was a left-wing initiative aimed at disqualifying right-wing votes. He clarified that any additional writing or marking on a ballot, even if seemingly for religious reasons, could render it invalid.
In light of these reports, voters are urged to carefully inspect their ballots before placing them in the envelope, ensuring they are free from scribbles, writings, or unusual markings. A ballot with any identifying mark risks being disqualified and not counted in the election results. Voters who discover marked or defaced ballots are advised to immediately contact the polling committee members and request a clean ballot to ensure their vote is counted.
