Israel’s General Intelligence Service (Shin Bet) announced it was developing a plan to counter possible cyberattacks and foreign interference in the upcoming early elections.
During a special meeting with the Knesset, a Shin Bet representative reported that there were clear indications of intentions, and even attempts to interfere during the polls, stressing that it was crucial to take all necessary precautions.
The Knesset monitoring committee discussed Tuesday holding early elections – the fourth in two years - after talks between the Likud and Blue and White parties failed to reach an understanding.
Blue and White, led by Defense Minister and Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz, continues to prepare for the unprecedented election, aiming to pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to withdraw his policy and accept full partnership.
The party set three possible dates, including March 2, 9, or 23, which were supported by the majority of lawmakers in the committee.
However, the Likud party and its right-wing allies were furious and considered the dates to be provocative, stressing that a date should be set to suit everyone. They suggested holding the elections in May, however, they haven’t reached a confirmed decision yet.
Netanyahu's supporters are trying to postpone the elections, until there is less criticism of his failures in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and its economic consequences. Whereas, Blue and White wants to hold early elections, hoping it can turn the public against Netanyahu.
However, most of the MPs of both parties, who voted last week to dissolve the Knesset and hold early elections, are hoping it won’t get passed.
Recent polls indicate that the majority of the parties, especially Likud and Blue and White, will lose a large percentage of the votes.
Sources in Likud revealed that the party is trying to form a government of the right-wing forces alone, hoping to bring along three or four from Gantz’s party.
These sources added that there is a possibility that Netanyahu will conclude an agreement with the four Arab parties led by MP Mansour Abbas, so that they would support such a government.
