Election Probe Information Not Yet Evidence, Leaks Harm Investigation

Noam Sohlberg, Deputy President of the Supreme Court and Chairman of the Elections Committee, updated committee members on the ongoing investigation into suspicions surrounding the 26th Knesset elections. Sohlberg stated that while some suspicions are very serious, the classified information gathered has not yet matured into concrete evidence. He emphasized that the investigation is continuing and must be thoroughly pursued.

In a letter to committee members, Sohlberg clarified that despite the new Knesset having convened, the Shin Bet's investigation persists. He explained that intelligence gathered so far has not yet yielded substantial evidence. Sohlberg convened a special investigation team, including representatives from the Shin Bet, Israel Police, and State Prosecutor's Office, for a direct update on the probe's progress. He decided to inform the committee members due to the gravity of the suspicions and extensive, often inaccurate, media reports.

Sohlberg recalled that shortly after the elections, the Shin Bet director presented him with information raising serious suspicions about the election process. He then ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine if these suspicions had a basis or could be refuted. He highlighted the Shin Bet's efforts to protect election integrity and information security throughout the election period, noting their significant assistance to the Elections Committee.

Regarding the investigation's status, Sohlberg reiterated that while classified information has been presented, it has not yet developed into tangible evidence, stating, "Classified information has been presented, which has not yet matured into real evidence, and may not; time will tell." However, he stressed that the existing information necessitates continued, intensive investigation until its conclusion. He noted no significant evidentiary change since the committee's statement last week.

Sohlberg also addressed inter-agency cooperation, confirming that his direct review with the investigation team indicated smooth collaboration between the Shin Bet, police, and the legal counsel to the government, with no indication of the latter refusing Shin Bet requests. He was assured that future requests based on legal suspicion would be handled promptly and efficiently.

Finally, Sohlberg strongly criticized leaks from the investigation, which he believes harm its progress and security aspects. He revealed that a classified opinion regarding the probe, prepared for the Elections Committee, had its main points leaked to the media before it was officially delivered. He emphasized that such leaks are a "persistent illness" that damages the investigation, particularly its security dimensions, and hinders the public's right to see the investigation concluded.