Jerusalem, 3 November, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Shin Bet chief David Zini has requested authorization to question four senior Arab politicians under caution as part of an investigation into alleged foreign interference and election violations during Israel’s 26th Knesset election, Israeli media reported Tuesday.
The three publicly identified politicians are Ta’al chairman Ahmad Tibi, Ra’am chairman Mansour Abbas, and Balad chairman Sami Abu Shehadeh. The fourth MK’s identity remains under a publication gag.
Reports indicate that investigators have gathered substantial evidence warranting questioning of the unnamed politician. The probe examines suspicions that foreign countries, including Qatar and Turkey, funneled large sums through illegal channels to influence Arab voter turnout.
Zini reportedly faces disagreements with Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara over whether the entire affair qualifies as a security offense warranting expanded investigative powers.
