Israeli President, Shin Bet Chief, and Election Committee Chair Meet to Secure Upcoming Elections Amid Foreign Influence Warnings

Israeli President Isaac Herzog convened a meeting on Thursday with Shin Bet chief David Zini and Supreme Court Justice Noam Solberg, who chairs the Central Elections Committee, at the President's Residence. The meeting, initiated by Zini, focused on preparations for the upcoming elections and emphasized the critical cooperation needed among all parties to ensure a fair and lawful electoral process.

Herzog stressed the national importance of election integrity, stating, "Elections are not a civil war but a significant democratic and social process." He highlighted the threat posed by hostile foreign digital interference aimed at undermining Israeli society and the purity of the elections. Herzog expressed confidence that the Central Elections Committee, supported by Shin Bet, would prevent disruptions.

Justice Solberg underscored the committee's dedication and professionalism in safeguarding election integrity, noting the united efforts of the committee, Shin Bet, and the President. Shin Bet chief Zini affirmed that the agency operates directly under the Elections Committee chair to maintain the elections' legitimacy and emphasized the agency's full commitment to this critical national event.

This meeting follows a recent report by outgoing State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman, which revealed Israel lacks a national policy to counter foreign influence on social media. The report warned that hostile actors, including Iran, exploit social networks covertly to deepen divisions and manipulate public perception. Englman criticized the absence of a designated government body to address this threat despite its recognition as a strategic risk by international organizations. He cautioned that the upcoming sensitive election period is fertile ground for malicious foreign interference, potentially skewing results and eroding public trust.

Englman also highlighted the emerging risks posed by AI tools enabling the rapid creation and dissemination of highly credible fake identities and content. He warned that without immediate and organized government action, such interference could threaten state sovereignty and democratic confidence.

The meeting between Herzog, Zini, and Solberg represents a proactive step to strengthen election security and coordination amid these growing challenges.