Shin Bet Chief Claims Legal Counsel Hinders Election Bias Probe

Shin Bet chief David Zini has reportedly told the chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Sohlberg, that the legal counsel is limiting the agency's ability to investigate suspicions of election bias in the Arab sector. The report, by journalist Moti Castel, states that Zini complained during a six-hour meeting that the Shin Bet's legal advisor and the Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, are "tying his hands" in the probe. Zini allegedly also shared these concerns with close associates. Sources familiar with the investigation, as described by Castel, claim the Attorney General has prevented real-time investigative actions and is attempting to restrict the examination of suspicions, viewing the current findings as merely the "tip of the iceberg." These sources also criticized a reported demand from Sohlberg for findings by Wednesday, arguing that a complex investigation requires more time and thorough examination. The Shin Bet has not confirmed or denied the report, stating they will not comment on closed-door discussions. The reported dispute arises amid a joint statement by Sohlberg, Baharav-Miara, and Zini, where they asserted that most publications about the ongoing Shin Bet investigation are inaccurate. Sohlberg confirmed that serious suspicions of foreign funding aimed at influencing the election, with potential security implications, are being examined. However, he emphasized that existing evidence does not undermine the overall election results. "Our position is that even if the suspicions are verified, this does not detract from the integrity of the election process and the overall election results," he stated. A joint team led by the Shin Bet, police, and state prosecution will be established to continue investigating the suspicions. Official results are still scheduled to be published on Wednesday and submitted to the President.