From terror to floods: The threats that could disrupt election day in Israel
According to Israel's Channel 14, with less than a day remaining until the 26th Knesset elections, Israeli security services and the police are preparing for a range of threats that could disrupt the democratic process. In addition to security warnings and foreign attempts to influence public opinion, weather forecasts predicting heavy rain and potential flooding in southern Israel have created logistical challenges for citizens reaching polling stations. Boaz Bismuth, Chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, has warned of enemy attempts to sabotage the election. The Israel Police announced that approximately 20,000 officers, border police, and volunteers will be deployed to secure polling stations. Special emergency protocols have also been established for scenarios such as missile attacks, allowing voters and officials to seek shelter when sirens sound. The Shin Bet has reported identifying and removing social media accounts engaged in election interference and spreading disinformation. Judge Noam Sohlberg, Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, holds the authority to decide on potential suspensions or delays of voting should security conditions escalate.