Jerusalem:Israeli police are preparing to deploy 22,000 officers for Tuesday's general elections amid fears of possible unrest following the announcement of the results, local media reported Monday.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, the deployment represents an increase of around 5,000 officers compared with the 2022 elections, as reported by Israeli private broadcaster i24NEWS, citing an unnamed senior police official.
The preparations come amid closely contested elections between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and the Israeli opposition, raising concerns that disputes over the results could trigger unrest. The senior police official emphasized that "the day after the elections is no less dangerous than election day itself."
Preparations have been underway for three months, including contingency plans for possible incidents following the release of exit polls, the announcement of election results, and in the days afterward. Police are also preparing for potential security attacks and public disturbances.
The official noted that while election day is sensitive, the following day is equally critical, although voting itself is expected to proceed relatively calmly. There is also preparation for the possibility that election results could prompt public demonstrations, with security arrangements planned for events organized by political parties.