Sohlberg orders Shin Bet probe into election interference

Central Elections Committee chair Noam Sohlberg has instructed Shin Bet chief David Zini to investigate suspicions of foreign funding and interference in Israel’s election, asking for any findings within one week. The allegations have not been substantiated, and Sohlberg said he could not attest to their substance. In a letter to Zini, Sohlberg directed the domestic security agency to use its authority to seek evidence that could either support or refute the suspicions. He cited the need to examine alleged improper influence on the electoral process and the election timetable in setting the deadline. The letter does not identify the foreign actors or organizations allegedly involved. Reports cited Qatar and Turkey as possible sources of funding, but those claims remain unverified. The inquiry is intended to establish whether money was transferred to influence voting or voter participation, including among Arab voters. The directive followed claims by Likud, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s party, that Arab parties had stolen the election through bribery and other irregularities. Likud called for police and Shin Bet investigations. Netanyahu described the allegations as an...