Crime family leaders pick sides in Israeli election

Prominent members of Israel's organized crime scene indicated their political preferences on election day. According to reports from Walla, the Jarushi family, linked to a major crime network, favored Ra'am and the Joint List. Associates of Eitan Hiya said he supported Yair Golan, a prominent figure on the political left. These affiliations suggest a diverse range of views among criminal figures rather than a single unified stance.

The Jarushi family is known for keeping police, the State Attorney's Office, and courts occupied year-round. On Wednesday, their political leanings diverged from the typical right-wing associations often attributed to such groups. The information comes from people close to the individuals involved. It does not confirm how specific members actually voted, only the general preference of the groups they represent.

A structural paradox exists in this political participation. Law enforcement agencies work to limit the activities of criminal organizations. Yet, members of those groups retain the right to vote if they are eligible. The Knesset that results from the election determines the legal tools the state uses against organized crime. Thus, individuals under investigation help choose the legislators who oversee their case.

Voting also occurred inside Israeli prisons on Wednesday. Polling stations at all detention facilities closed at 8 p.m. The Israel Prison Service reported a turnout of 88.7% among eligible prisoners and detainees. The service's Operations Division coordinated the process with the Central Elections Committee. Preparations were led by IPS Commissioner Kobi Yaakobi. Judges and official observers visited facilities during the day to monitor the process.

Ballots were cast in secret under strict security measures. The vote took place while the state continues its legal efforts against organized crime. The Law for the Protection of the Public from Criminal Organizations, effective at the end of 2024, allows courts to impose restrictions on people in such organizations without a formal indictment. This applies if strict legal conditions are met.

Courts may bar individuals from certain areas, confine them to their homes, or prohibit contact with specific people. The law aims to prevent serious harm to public safety when criminal proceedings are insufficient. It seeks to balance public safety with the minimization of individual rights. Association with a crime group does not automatically remove the right to vote. A ballot cast by a linked individual carries the same weight as any other eligible citizen's.

Police may monitor these organizations, and prosecutors may seek restrictions. Courts may issue orders against their members. However, behind the voting booth curtain, no distinction is made between the investigator and the person under investigation. Both cast ballots for the same Knesset. The final outcome of the election will determine the composition of that legislative body.