Shin Bet Questioned Activist on Arab Sector Election Politics

Journalist and Balad activist Abd Abu Shahadeh was released from detention on Sunday after being investigated by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) on suspicion of contact with a foreign agent. During his interrogation, Abu Shahadeh was questioned about political matters, including alleged foreign interference in elections. He was asked for his assessment of voter turnout and his interpretation of election results within the Arab community.

Sources within the Shin Bet told Channel 12 that Abu Shahadeh was also questioned regarding suspicions of foreign involvement in the elections. A separate report by i24News indicated that the Shin Bet has revised its estimate of funds transferred for election interference down to several million shekels, from an initial estimate of around 100 million shekels. The Shin Bet chief reportedly insists the investigation is a security matter and seeks to utilize the agency's full capabilities.

Reports also emerged that the Shin Bet chief had requested to investigate several Arab political leaders, including Yousef Jabareen, chairman of the Joint List; Ahmed Tibi, head of Ta'al; Sami Abu Shahadeh, head of Balad; Mansour Abbas, head of Ra'am; and Ayman Odeh, the outgoing head of Hadash. However, the Legal Advisor to the Government, Gali Baharav-Miara, stated that while there is a reasonable suspicion warranting investigation against MK Odeh, she believes there is insufficient suspicion against the others.

Upon his release, Abu Shahadeh described his detention as a "false arrest" and a "political investigation without any basis." He accused the Shin Bet of conducting a "witch hunt" at the behest of the Prime Minister to intimidate and silence the Arab community and delegitimize their vote. He vowed that such persecution would not succeed in silencing them and thanked supporters from both Arab and Jewish communities.

Separately, the Legal Advisor to the Government stated at a Justice Ministry conference that she is unaware of any evidence that could significantly impact election results. She emphasized that decisions to investigate individuals are professional, objective, and equitable, regardless of political or ethnic affiliation.