Israeli Politicians React to Election Bribery Allegations
Translated & summarized from Kan News by baba
The Chairman of the Central Elections Committee requested an investigation into suspected foreign election bribery, including from Qatar, leading to strong reactions from Israeli politicians. Parties like Likud and the Minister of National Security called for arrests and investigations, while others like the Democrats criticized the Prime Minister for attempting to undermine results. The Police and Shin Bet have assured thorough investigations into the allegations, which are based on intelligence gathered over the past two weeks.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Central Elections Committee Chairman requested Shin Bet investigate foreign election bribery, including from Qatar.
- Likud party accused Arab parties of "stealing the elections" and foreign interference.
- Minister of National Security called for arrests of Arab party leaders and Muslim Brotherhood members.
- Democrats Chairman accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of undermining election results.
- Police and Shin Bet pledged thorough, unbiased investigations into the bribery allegations.
- Former Elections Committee Director-General urged caution and avoidance of premature conclusions.
The Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Noam Sohlberg, has requested that the head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, investigate suspicions of election bribery by foreign entities, including Qatar. This request has sparked a wave of reactions across the political spectrum.
The Likud party declared the "Ra'amgate" affair an "earthquake," accusing foreign actors of stealing the elections and attempting to seize control of the Knesset, Islamize Israel, and overthrow the right-wing government to cause the defeat of the IDF. Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir called on the Shin Bet to arrest the leaders of Arab parties suspected of involvement with Qatari money, as well as other suspects, including individuals from the Muslim Brotherhood.
The 'Yash' party, represented by Gadi Eisenkot, stated that Eisenkot is in contact with relevant parties and receiving updates. The party emphasized the importance of safeguarding election integrity against any interference and called for thorough examination of all complaints. They also warned against allowing political elements to exploit the situation to influence the swearing-in of the 26th Knesset.
Yair Golan, Chairman of the Democrats, criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu, claiming he is attempting to undermine election results through a campaign against the public's will, particularly targeting the Arab public. Golan asserted that any genuine suspicion of election tampering must be fully investigated, adding that serious Qatari involvement occurred in Netanyahu's office.
The Inspector General of the Police, Dany Levy, assured that the Israel Police would diligently protect election integrity and investigate all complaints and suspicions of offenses without bias. Security officials detailed that the investigation, opened in the past two weeks based on intelligence, is being taken seriously, with the Shin Bet having waited to take overt action for specific reasons. Former Director-General of the Central Elections Committee, Orly Adas, urged responsible conduct, waiting for investigation findings, and avoiding premature conclusions, stressing the importance of public trust in elections.
Earlier, the Likud issued a statement accusing Arab parties of "stealing the elections" and demanding a thorough investigation. On election day itself, Shin Bet head Zini had praised the Central Elections Committee for its conduct.
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