Opposition leader Lapid accuses Netanyahu backers of attempts at 'crushing' Israel's democracy

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has castigated supporters of Benjamin Netanyahu's government for allegedly attempting to undermine Israel's democracy. Lapid alleged that the government has enlisted "plants" within the security system to manipulate the upcoming election. This, he said, represents a direct threat to the nation's democratic processes.

Lapid emphasized that those unwilling to accept defeat are behind these machinations. He urged state institutions to resist these attempts, urging them to swiftly form a government. This accusation follows reports suggesting that Shin Bet chief David Zini is investigating three Palestinian party leaders over potential foreign interference in the election.

Netanyahu's team has been repeatedly accused of trying to discredit the election results. Despite these claims, law enforcement officials have found no evidence to support these allegations or justify questioning the leaders. The significant turnout of Palestinian citizens in the recent election has hindered both Netanyahu and his rival Gadi Eisenkott from securing the 61 seats needed to form a government.