Shin Bet Chief Seeks to Question Arab Politicians, Sparks Legal Dispute

The head of the Shin Bet, David Zini, has requested to question four senior politicians from Arab parties under caution. These include Ahmad Tibi, chairman of Ta'al; Mansour Abbas, chairman of Ra'am; Sami Abu Shehadeh, chairman of Balad; and an additional senior Knesset member whose identity is currently undisclosed. While there is reportedly significant evidence against the unnamed Knesset member, warranting a cautioned investigation, the Attorney General is demanding to review the evidence before approving investigations into Tibi, Abbas, and Abu Shehadeh, as the materials have not yet been provided.

During a meeting on the matter, Zini reportedly fumbled while naming Mansour Abbas. Subsequently, a joint investigation team comprising the Shin Bet and the police was agreed upon. However, two days after this decision, the Shin Bet has not transferred the necessary materials to the police, delaying the investigation's commencement.

Separately, Judge Solberg and senior officials from the Election Committee held discussions with Likud representatives to prevent a refusal to certify election results. Zini also met with Solberg and raised claims against the Attorney General regarding the investigation into suspicions of foreign influence in the elections.

Criticism has also been leveled against Zini's conduct, with claims that he is demanding to investigate top Arab leaders without presenting supporting evidence. Concerns have been raised about "too many red lights" regarding Zini's actions, described as highly troubling, and a significant lack of trust between law enforcement agencies, including the Shin Bet, police, and the Ministry of Justice.

The Attorney General issued a sharp response, stating that in a state of law, citizens or elected officials cannot be investigated without sufficient evidence. She invited the Shin Bet or any other entity to present any evidence justifying an investigation, asserting that investigations will only proceed with a evidentiary basis. The Attorney General also highlighted that the Shin Bet's delay in transferring investigation materials to the special team is hindering the process, and that decisions will be made based on the available evidence.