22,000 officers deploy for Israel Knesset election security
Police are increasing their presence by 5,000 officers compared to the last cycle to manage potential unrest after exit polls release at 10:00 p.m.
By Pedro Salazar ·
The Israel Police are deploying 22,000 officers for the 26th Knesset election, an increase of roughly 5,000 personnel from the 17,000 used in the previous cycle. A senior police official stated that while voting day is expected to proceed with relative calm, security concerns are concentrated on the period following the release of exit polls at 10:00 p.m. The force is preparing for potential friction, confrontations, and disorder that could extend from that time into the following weekend.
This deployment follows a three-month preparation period conducted in coordination with the Shin Bet and the Israel Defense Forces. During a comprehensive security briefing, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accompanied by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, reviewed intelligence assessments and operational readiness. The meeting covered threats of hostile terrorist activity and concerns over public order disruptions. The senior police official noted that the prime minister and his ministry director-general were impressed by the seriousness of the staff work.
Police operations will extend beyond securing polling stations during voting hours. Large forces will remain active across the country after polls close to monitor reactions from supporters of various parties. Specific security measures are being planned for five major party gatherings, including four events in Tel Aviv and a Likud event at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem. The senior official emphasized that these party events require substantial police resources to maintain order.
Preparations include addressing the possibility of a scenario described as "Operation Capitol." This plan was drafted in August by a team led by retired Maj.-Gen. Sigal Bar-Tzvi, formerly head of the Police Operations Directorate. The scenario envisions a situation where one political bloc claims the results were forged and attempts to undermine public order or storm the Knesset building. This plan was modeled on the events of January 6, 2021, in the United States.
A retired police major general expressed concern that the "Capitol" scenario must be prioritized in operational planning. He argued that if one leader declares they do not accept the results and calls supporters to the streets, police may require assistance from the IDF to manage opposing camps. He noted that the presence of numerous firearms in civilian hands and the existence of regional defense units and standby security squads add to the potential for violent escalation.
The senior police official stressed the necessity of maintaining an apolitical police force during the election period. He stated that the Israel Police are the most important organization for holding elections and must remain free from political influence in both practical conduct and public perception. This independence is viewed as essential for overseeing an orderly transfer of power.
Police Commissioner Chief Superintendent Danny Levy has held periodic conversations with former senior officials who raised concerns about the post-election scenarios. The force is scheduled to manage security operations starting on election day, with the bulk of the 22,000 officers positioned to respond to developments after the 10:00 p.m. exit poll release.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
