Israel Police Expand Election Security Force to 22,000 Officers

Israel Police have increased their security deployment to 22,000 officers for the upcoming elections for the 26th Knesset, a rise from the approximately 17,000 personnel assigned during the previous vote.

A senior police official stated that while voting day is expected to pass without major incident, the hours following the release of exit polls at 10:00 p.m. present the greatest risk for public order disruptions.

The official noted that exit poll results may drive citizens into the streets to celebrate or protest, creating potential for friction and confrontations that could last through the night and into the following weekend.

Police are preparing for a sustained operation that extends beyond the polling stations, with large forces remaining active nationwide after the polls close to manage disorder and maintain public order.

Security personnel will also secure five major political gatherings, including four events in Tel Aviv and one Likud event at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem. The official described these venues as requiring substantial police resources due to their size and political significance.

A comprehensive briefing was presented to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who attended alongside National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The report covered intelligence assessments, threats from hostile terrorist activity, and operational readiness.

According to the official, police have coordinated with the Shin Bet and the Israel Defense Forces for three months. He added that the prime minister and his ministry director-general were impressed by the staff work and preparation.

The police chief emphasized the necessity of an apolitical force to ensure free elections, stating that the police must remain free of political influence in both conduct and public perception while operating under the National Security Ministry.

Concerns regarding post-election instability have been discussed within the defense establishment since August. Military correspondent Avi Ashkenazi reported that planners developed a scenario called Operation Capitol, modeled after the January 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol.

The plan, drafted by a team led by retired Maj.-Gen. Sigal Bar-Tzvi, accounts for claims of widespread fraud, attempts to disrupt vote counting, and scenarios where tens of thousands attempt to storm the Knesset building.

A senior retired police officer advised that Police Commissioner Danny Levy should prioritize election night over voting day, describing a dangerous scenario where a bloc leader rejects results and mobilizes supporters against the opposing camp.

In such a scenario, the retired officer said police would likely require assistance from the IDF to restore order. Several former police and Shin Bet officials argue this specific scenario should top the priority list, requiring formal orders on force allocation and war games for commanders at National Headquarters and across districts.