Shin Bet Pushes for Investigation into Suspected Foreign Election Interference

Israel's domestic security agency, Shin Bet, is pushing for a full investigation into suspected foreign interference in the recent elections, citing substantial intelligence gathered. The Mossad, initially tasked with assisting Shin Bet, has completed its review and transferred its findings to the security agency. A special investigation team is set to convene soon to discuss the intelligence, which Shin Bet believes is sufficient to launch a broad inquiry.

Shin Bet collected intelligence concerning an alleged attempt at foreign influence through external actors just a day before the election. This information was relayed in real-time to the Chairman of the Election Committee, Judge Noam Solberg. On election day, further intelligence emerged, strengthening the suspicions and was also shared with Solberg. Shin Bet described the situation to Solberg as a suspicion of a 'strategic attack,' prompting him to instruct the agency to use all available tools to investigate thoroughly and swiftly.

Following Solberg's directive, Shin Bet initiated an intensive effort, working around the clock to examine the information. Complex operations reportedly uncovered significant intelligence across various levels. Shin Bet's analysis indicates well-founded suspicions of widespread foreign influence, particularly through substantial foreign funding. However, the legal advisor to the government reportedly does not view the matter as primarily a security investigation, which has limited Shin Bet's operational capabilities.

Shin Bet has expressed concern that without full security investigation tools, they cannot reach the truth according to professional standards. Intelligence gathered suggests that foreign funding and influence operations are extensive, potentially involving thousands of individuals. Shin Bet has informed the Election Committee that further intelligence gathering is necessary to connect the dots and confirm the scope of the phenomenon with high certainty.

To achieve this, Shin Bet is advocating for the investigation to be officially classified as a security matter, for 'subversion' to be treated similarly to terrorism to expand their authority, and for the lifting of strict limitations imposed on the case. Currently, only interviews have been conducted, with one person questioned and released. While it was initially stated that the information was insufficient to nullify the elections, Shin Bet insists there is enough to warrant a full investigation. A joint investigation team comprising Shin Bet and the Israel Police is in place, and the government's legal advisor still believes further interviews suffice, contrasting with Shin Bet's insistence on a formal investigation.