Ben-Gvir calls for arrest of Arab party heads amid Qatar-linked election interference claims
The Shin Bet launched the investigation following a directive issued by Central Elections Committee Chairman Justice Noam Sohlberg, citing "severe suspicions... regarding improper influence."
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has urged the arrest of Arab party leaders following allegations of foreign interference in Israel's elections, as reported by the Central Elections Committee. The Shin Bet should initiate an arrest warrant for the heads of Arab parties suspected of ties to Qatari funding, along with any other suspects involved, provided there is a legal basis for their detention.
This comes as the investigation unfolds on October 27, amid concerns over improper influence from foreign sources. The investigation is probing potential funding channels, including connections to terrorist networks, as well as intercepted cash and voting materials linked to the Ra'am party. Opposition leaders, including Gadi Eisenkot and Yair Golan, have condemned the situation, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the election process and thoroughly investigate any claims of foreign interference.
Yisrael Beytenu Chairman Avigdor Liberman also condemned the investigation, accusing the leadership of Arab parties of exploiting the situation for political purposes.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 4 other outlets
- Shin Bet probes suspected Qatari, Turkish funding to boost Arab turnout in Israeli election jpost.com
- Israeli minister seeks arrest of Arab party leaders rte.ie
- Sohlberg orders Shin Bet probe into foreign election interference israelnationalnews.com
- Election committee chief urges Shin Bet probe into alleged foreign funding haaretz.com
