Israeli Security Agency reports thwarting plots against senior officials, online influence operations

Security officials expect similar efforts to increase ahead of Israel’s upcoming legislative elections.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israel’s domestic security service has disrupted several alleged terrorist plots targeting senior political and security figures while also dismantling foreign-run online campaigns that authorities say sought to manipulate Israeli public opinion, Channel 12 reported Thursday.

According to the broadcaster, the Shin Bet recently prevented multiple planned attacks directed at members of Israel’s political and security leadership.

The report did not disclose the identities of the intended targets or provide details about the alleged plots.

In a separate effort, the agency also uncovered what it described as coordinated foreign influence operations conducted through social media platforms.

Among the networks identified was a Telegram channel known as Bnei Eretz, which investigators allege portrayed itself as an Israeli channel despite being operated by a “hostile foreign actor.”

Channel 12 reported that Israeli security officials believe such online campaigns are intended to shape public discourse and influence domestic opinion.

The broadcaster said security officials expect similar efforts to increase ahead of Israel’s upcoming legislative elections.

According to the assessment cited by Channel 12, foreign actors could attempt to take advantage of political polarization and existing social tensions during the election campaign.

The report did not identify the country or organization allegedly responsible for operating the Telegram channel or the other influence campaigns.

Israeli security services are continuing to monitor both physical security threats and suspected foreign influence activities as preparations continue for the next legislative elections.

The Shin Bet has continually thwarted numerous terror plots, having previously prevented over 1,000 significant attacks in a single year.

Prominent interdictions include the foiling of multiple Iranian-recruited cells, the disruption of a Lebanon-linked terror cell, and the disruption of plans targeting high-profile officials such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.