Likud demands prohibition on freely hosting citizens flying to Israel for election - report

The Likud party has formally requested the Election Committee to prohibit Israelis from freely hosting or providing logistical support to citizens flying into the country specifically to vote. Likud's legal adviser, Ilan Bombach, argued in a letter that such a prohibition is necessary to prevent bribery and other forms of undue influence on voters.

This move follows reports that officials from the Transportation Ministry, led by Minister Miri Regev, were unofficially discussing limiting flights to prevent Israelis from reaching the country in time for the elections. According to Haaretz, ministry officials expressed concern that many incoming voters might support opposition parties.

However, the proposal has faced immediate opposition. MK Efrat Rayten of The Democrats warned that any restrictions hindering Israelis' ability to return and vote would be challenged in the High Court of Justice. The Association for Civil Rights in Israel also sent an urgent appeal to election officials and the Transportation Minister, demanding an immediate halt to any initiative that could impair citizens' voting access and urging assurances that citizens can enter the country close to the election date.