Shin Bet Chief Approves Special Tech Use in Foreign Election Influence Probe

Shin Bet Director David Zini has authorized the use of special technological tools and an operational unit within the agency to gather intelligence in a probe into suspected foreign influence on elections. An Israeli security official told Haaretz that the use of these technological means is unusual and provides an advantage over other state security missions. This contrasts with the stance of the Lahav 433 national crime unit, which, after reviewing evidence, believes there is no basis for a criminal investigation or suspicion of security offenses, according to police. The police suggest the matter might at most involve a violation of party financing laws and question the Shin Bet's suspicions against former MK Ayman Odeh, who allegedly received hundreds of thousands of shekels from the Palestinian Authority. Sources in the law enforcement system indicate the Shin Bet has yet to provide concrete evidence supporting Zini's suspicions of foreign election interference. A senior law enforcement source criticized the Shin Bet's actions as an exaggeration to satisfy Zini and his deputy, stating they are unwilling to back down despite a lack of evidence. The source added that the Shin Bet's conduct warrants a government fact-finding committee and warned that those involved would be held accountable. The source also stated that Zini is not comprehending the risks of his actions in his position as Shin Bet chief. Zini and his deputy, identified only as "N" due to a gag order, maintain in private discussions that this is a highly dangerous case involving significant funding to alter Israeli election outcomes. Their conduct has reportedly caused deep rifts within the Shin Bet and drawn sharp criticism from officials in the law enforcement, police, and justice ministries. The Shin Bet's legal advisor and head of investigations reportedly attempted to curb Zini and his deputy due to insufficient evidence, and the head of the Arab affairs division also questioned their actions. To sideline these officials, Zini appointed "Y," head of a different department, to manage the investigation. "Y" reports to Deputy Director "N," who previously worked with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Y" is awaiting a decision on a promotion to department head, a decision Zini, his deputy, and Netanyahu will make, though all promotions in the Shin Bet and other security agencies are currently on hold due to the transitional nature of Netanyahu's government.