Fuel Card Scandal During Elections Takes Unexpected Turn Amid Probe

Following the emergence of suspicious photographs on social media, fuel companies have investigated data related to vehicle refueling. New details have surfaced regarding the potential distribution of fuel cards during the Knesset elections, amidst suspicions of voter bribery in Bedouin communities in the Negev. A review by major fuel companies has not revealed any unusual activity at gas stations, despite widespread social media claims of mass distribution of such cards, according to Israel Hayom. The reports emerged after a significant increase in voter turnout among the Bedouin population, with images of fuel vouchers circulating online, allegedly used to incentivize voting. Delek Israel conducted an internal review and found no abnormal refueling patterns. Other fuel companies reported similar findings, noting no suspicious activity nationwide or specifically in the Negev. Further checks indicated that some types of fuel cards pictured online are no longer sold, making it impossible to purchase them shortly before the elections. The Central Elections Committee also reported no complaints regarding unusual voter transportation arrangements in Bedouin localities, and the police stated they received no reports of mass fuel card distribution in the south. However, the absence of unusual patterns does not rule out the possibility of limited voucher distribution. It remains unclear if such cards were issued during the recent elections or who might have been behind their alleged distribution. Separately, an investigation into suspicions of voter bribery in favor of the Ra'am party is ongoing. The police initially arrested three residents from Segev Shalom and Arara in the Negev on suspicion of exchanging money for votes for the party. During searches, authorities found envelopes containing tens of thousands of shekels in cash, along with notes and other relevant materials. The case was subsequently transferred to the Lahav 433 unit. On Thursday, October 29, new arrests were made in connection with the investigation, including school principals from southern Israel. Information about a fuel card linked to one of the suspects also emerged in the investigation files, though no established connection between the criminal case and the alleged mass distribution of fuel vouchers has been made. The practice of organizing voter transportation has also been a subject of discussion. For years, political parties and organizations in Israel have assisted citizens in reaching polling stations using volunteer vehicles and coordination centers. While this is a common practice, a distinction exists between providing transportation assistance and offering material rewards for party support. The transportation issue is particularly acute for residents of unrecognized Bedouin settlements in the Negev, where public transport is often unavailable and polling stations can be dozens of kilometers away. The mayor of Rahat, Talal Al-Karnawi, rejected automatic links between high Bedouin turnout and potential violations, noting long queues at polling stations on election day. He also mentioned that during previous elections, Bedouin families received fuel vouchers worth 50 to 100 shekels to facilitate travel to distant polling stations.