Israeli State Lacks Coordinated Response to Iranian Digital Influence Threats Ahead of 2026 Elections

A recent report by outgoing State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman reveals that Israel is significantly underprepared to counter foreign influence operations, particularly those originating from Iran, in the digital and social media spheres. Despite recognizing the threat nearly a decade ago, the Israeli government lacks a formal national policy, a designated lead agency, and a coordinated inter-ministerial response to this strategic risk. Key roles remain unfilled, and critical recommendations have not been discussed at the cabinet level.

The report highlights that the cyber defense apparatus and the National Security Council have not effectively collaborated, with the cyber division focusing only on influence linked to cyberattacks, while the National Security Council refrained from advancing the issue. As of March 2026, Israel does not even have a comprehensive situational assessment of foreign digital influence efforts. Existing educational programs on misinformation are voluntary, and no government body is responsible for public awareness or information campaigns.

Englman warns that the upcoming 2026 Knesset elections pose a particularly sensitive period vulnerable to foreign interference aimed at undermining democratic institutions and public trust. He calls on the Central Elections Committee to develop protocols for rapid response and information sharing. The Ministry of Justice’s 2019 guidelines on combating online foreign influence have not been updated despite advances in artificial intelligence and evolving threats.

The report urges the National Security Council to propose a government decision to establish a dedicated coordinating body to manage and synchronize efforts across ministries. It also recommends that the Shin Bet enhance detection of foreign influence attempts and that the Ministry of Education mandate critical thinking and misinformation curricula from an early age.

Supporting the report, the research organization Fake Reporter confirms a sharp rise in foreign influence networks from Iran, Russia, and the Arab world targeting Israeli society to sow division, fear, and distrust. Israeli civil society and internet experts stress the urgent need for state-led monitoring, reporting, and public education mechanisms to protect the democratic process and national sovereignty.

Summary: Israel faces a critical lack of coordinated government response to foreign digital influence threats, especially from Iran, risking democratic integrity ahead of the 2026 elections. The State Comptroller’s report calls for urgent establishment of a national policy and dedicated agency to counter these strategic risks.