Israel's Attorney-General Denies Shin Bet Request to Interrogate Arab Lawmakers

Zini reportedly sought to question Ra'am chairman Mansour Abbas, Balad chairman Sami Abu Shehadeh, Ahmad Tibi of the Joint List, and another senior Knesset member whose identity is barred from publication. According to Kipa, significant evidence exists only against the unnamed Knesset member. Baharav-Miara also accused the Shin Bet of delaying the investigation by withholding gathered materials for two days from a special investigative team, which was established on the recommendation of Acting Chief Justice Noam Sohlberg.

The dispute has triggered intense political reactions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for an investigation into the election interference claims, while Likud accused the Attorney General of obstructing the Shin Bet's work and concealing the truth. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir demanded Baharav-Miara's dismissal, accusing the Arab lawmakers of election theft. Conversely, opposition leader Yair Golan warned that the Shin Bet was being used as a political tool, and Mansour Abbas defended the Arab public, stating readiness for any lawful investigation while demanding respect for voters' decisions.