Netanyahu's Chief of Staff Provided Information Leading to Ra'am Activist Probe

Ido Nordon, the Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, provided information to the police that initiated an investigation into three Ra'am party activists. Nordon reportedly contacted senior police officials and relayed the details that prompted the inquiry.

Senior law enforcement officials stated that the suspects, whose detention was extended, have provided explanations regarding the source of funds. These officials assess that the case is weak and unlikely to result in an indictment, though the investigation is ongoing.

The investigation centers on suspicions of election bribery. The three suspects, residents of Shagur Shalom and Ar'arat an-Naqab, were allegedly planning to distribute money to citizens in exchange for votes for Ra'am. Envelopes prepared for distribution were reportedly found in their homes.

Ra'am has denied the allegations, claiming the activists were arrested before polls opened as part of a political effort to suppress Arab voter turnout. Contrary to some reports, fuel vouchers were not found in their possession.

Separately, the Shin Bet is investigating alleged Qatari involvement in the elections, following a directive from the Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Sohlberg. A police source clarified that there is no connection between the Ra'am activist investigation and the Shin Bet's probe. The Prime Minister's office has denied the report.