Knesset Vote: Police Surge to 22,000 Officers Amid Fears of Post-Poll Unrest

Israel Police are mobilizing 22,000 officers for the 26th Knesset election, a figure that exceeds the roughly 17,000 deployed during the previous vote. The security operation is designed to manage public order, with particular focus on the period immediately following the release of exit polls at 10:00 p.m.

A senior police official stated that voting day is expected to pass with relative calm, but the subsequent hours and days carry greater risk. He noted that the day after the election is no less sensitive, as results may drive either celebratory or angry crowds into the streets. Police forces will remain active nationwide through the night and into the weekend to address potential friction and confrontations.

The security plan includes the protection of five major party gatherings. Four of these events are scheduled in Tel Aviv, while the Likud party will hold its gathering at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem. The official emphasized that such large-scale party events require substantial police presence to ensure safety.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir received a comprehensive briefing on the operation. The review covered intelligence assessments, threats from hostile terrorist activity, and operational readiness. Police have coordinated with the Shin Bet and the IDF for approximately three months. The official reported that the prime minister and his ministry director-general were impressed by the staff work.

Former security officials have raised concerns about a scenario modeled on the January 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol. In August, Maariv correspondent Avi Ashkenazi reported that the defense establishment was preparing for Operation Capitol. This plan, drafted by a team led by retired Maj.-Gen. Sigal Bar-Tzvi, addresses potential claims of forged results or attempts to disrupt the vote count, including the possibility that tens of thousands might attempt to storm the Knesset.

A senior retired police officer advised that Commissioner Danny Levy should prioritize election night over voting day. He described a dangerous situation where a bloc leader rejects the results and mobilizes supporters, requiring the IDF to assist the police. Several former officials argue this scenario should be the top priority, citing the need for formal orders and war games. One retired major general warned about widespread civilian firearms and a campaign against the Central Elections Committee, calling the current environment a test of leadership.

The police chief emphasized the need for an apolitical force to maintain public trust. He stated that it is completely impossible to hold elections in Israel without a police force that is free from political influence in both its conduct and its public perception.