Right-Wing Activists May Disrupt Knesset Swearing-In, Security Officials Warn
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Former Israeli security officials are concerned that up to 1,500 right-wing activists, some possibly armed, may attempt to disrupt the swearing-in of the 26th Knesset. The activists reportedly aim to prevent Knesset members from entering the plenum, drawing parallels to the US Capitol riot. A forum of retired security chiefs has urged authorities to prepare for potential violence and ensure the democratic process proceeds as scheduled.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Up to 1,500 right-wing activists, some armed, may try to disrupt the Knesset swearing-in.
- Former security officials warn of a potential disruption similar to the US Capitol riot.
- A forum of retired security chiefs alerted authorities to the threat.
- Activists allegedly plan to block Knesset members and families from entering.
- Concerns exist about potential violent clashes between opposing groups.
Former senior security officials are warning of a potential disruption to the swearing-in ceremony of the 26th Knesset, with concerns that up to 1,500 right-wing activists, some reportedly armed, may attempt to prevent the proceedings. The activists are allegedly planning to block Knesset members and their families from entering the plenum, in a scenario reminiscent of the January 6th Capitol riot in the United States. The "Shield of Defense for Democracy" forum, comprising 168 retired IDF chiefs of staff, police commissioners, and heads of the Mossad and Shin Bet, sent a letter detailing these concerns. They noted online chatter indicating a plan by opponents of the current Knesset Speaker to arrive on the swearing-in day to obstruct entry. The forum also acknowledged counter-calls for people to come to the Knesset to ensure the ceremony proceeds. They emphasized that failing to hold the swearing-in on time would be a severe blow to democracy and expressed fears of violent clashes between opposing groups.
In their letter, the forum urged authorities to deploy necessary forces and resources to ensure the smooth execution of the ceremony and to prevent violent confrontations. "We have no doubt that if the threat materializes, the task will be difficult given the scope of participants," they stated, recommending a public appeal clarifying the stakes and operational preparedness to prevent disruption and clashes. They expressed hope that the democratic process of swearing in Knesset members would proceed as legally mandated.
One forum member revealed that recent intelligence suggests between hundreds and 1,500 right-wing activists intend to prevent the Knesset's swearing-in. This individual also expressed concern, based on the intelligence, that some activists might be armed. The former security official demanded that the police and Shin Bet take action to prevent interference with the swearing-in and to deploy forces along the routes leading to the Knesset building.
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