Shin Bet Chief Urges Knesset to Avoid Political Entanglement Ahead of Elections

The Knesset Subcommittee on Intelligence convened a closed session on July 27, 2026, to discuss preparations for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections amid growing security concerns. Chairman Boaz Bismut warned that the election campaign would be a primary target for Israel's enemies, particularly Iran, which seeks to undermine Israeli society internally rather than through direct military confrontation. Bismut highlighted the real threat of physical harm to public officials, including the prime minister and ministers, and stressed the need for heightened vigilance by security agencies.

Judge Noam Solberg, head of the Central Elections Committee, emphasized the importance of protecting the democratic process from deception, impersonation, and manipulation that could distort voters’ free will. He defended recent appointments to the committee as highly professional despite public criticism and reiterated the committee's commitment to safeguarding free expression, fair discourse, and public trust in the election process.

Shin Bet chief David Zini underscored the agency’s clear separation from political activity, stating, "Keep us away from any political involvement or entanglement, we are absolutely not there." He explained that the Shin Bet operates under the authority of the Central Elections Committee chairman and the prime minister’s directives to ensure election integrity and security.

Bismut also criticized questionable appointments within the Central Elections Committee, suggesting they raise concerns about impartiality and could undermine public confidence. He warned against both external and internal threats to election integrity, including foreign-funded interference and biased officials overriding voters’ choices.

The session highlighted the collaboration between the Central Elections Committee, Shin Bet, and other security and cyber agencies to ensure a secure, fair, and transparent election process. The officials pledged continued vigilance and professional conduct to uphold Israel’s democratic sovereignty on election day.