Israeli Supreme Court Judge Warns Against Election Interference Ahead of Tisha B'Av

Noam Solberg, Chairman of Israel's Central Elections Committee and Deputy President of the Supreme Court, issued a special letter on the eve of Tisha B'Av addressing the upcoming Knesset elections. Solberg emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the elections, warning against any attempts to undermine the process. He highlighted the democratic significance of elections as an expression of Israeli sovereignty and collective responsibility for the nation's future.

In his letter, Solberg reflected on the meaning of Tisha B'Av as a time of remembrance and introspection, recalling the heavy price paid for division and hatred, but also the resilience to rebuild a Jewish and democratic state. He stressed that every vote represents an individual citizen’s hope and worldview, and that all votes are equal and must be protected with professionalism, accuracy, and fairness.

Solberg called on the committee members to act with truth and peace, quoting the prophet’s words to emphasize uncompromising commitment to election purity and respectful conduct. He warned of expected challenges and pressures in the coming period, urging vigilance and teamwork to uphold the democratic process. He reminded the committee that their duty is to serve the State of Israel and all its citizens, not any party or faction.

The letter concluded with gratitude to the committee staff for their dedication and a reaffirmation of their role in strengthening Israel as a free and stable Jewish democracy where disputes are resolved at the ballot box. The message was released amid heightened concern, following a recent meeting convened by President Isaac Herzog with Solberg and Shin Bet chief David Zini, where full support was declared for safeguarding election integrity against internal and external threats.