Israeli Lawmakers Warn of Iran's Physical Threats Ahead of 2026 Elections

Boaz Bismuth, chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, issued a stark warning during a special session on Monday about a credible physical threat to Israeli public officials, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in the lead-up to the 2026 elections. Bismuth cautioned that Iran might escalate tensions by turning Israel's election process into a new battleground against the country.

The discussion included key security figures such as Shin Bet chief David Zini and representatives from the National Security Council and the Israel Defense Forces. Bismuth emphasized the seriousness of the threat, stating that Iran could use the election period to target Israeli leaders physically.

In addition to security concerns, Bismuth criticized recent appointments to the Central Elections Committee, describing them as questionable and demanding explanations for the decisions. The warnings highlight heightened vigilance within Israel's security establishment as the nation prepares for the upcoming elections amid regional threats.