Learning from the 2022 election, when Iran was involved in a variety of influence efforts, and given Tehran's understanding of the importance of the upcoming vote, it should be assumed that Iranian interference will take place before, during and after the election.

Iran will apply the extensive experience it has accumulated through years of direct engagement with Israeli online discourse, using that familiarity to refine and upgrade its influence campaigns ahead of Election Day.

An analysis of Iran's previous attempts, particularly during the last election cycle, makes it clear that Tehran has no intention of waiting for Election Day. Iran is likely to try to disrupt the political system's "pre-election alignment" among both Jewish and Arab voters, seeking to shape internal political organization in a way that promotes its strategic goal of political chaos.

This would then serve as preparation for Election Day itself. Iran is expected to activate hidden assets in selected online communities to spread fake news and disinformation designed to disrupt the proper functioning of the election. This would set the stage for a third phase: undermining the election results afterward.

The US model

A relevant example is Iran's involvement in the 2020 US presidential election. Iranian operatives used the name of the far-right Proud Boys movement to intimidate potential voters and discourage them from casting ballots, intentionally seeking to disrupt the voting process in the US. Iran could replicate this pattern in Israel by attempting a series of moves aimed at harming the integrity of the election.

Another important point to consider is the possibility that Iran will use its online assets to persuade individuals, whether through political impersonation or financial incentives, to carry out actions not only in cyberspace but also in the physical world, all with the aim of harming the voting process in Israel.

Past experience shows Iran has become highly effective at recruiting individuals inside Israel to act on its behalf, knowingly or unwittingly. Tehran leverages its deep familiarity with Israeli society to make such recruitment easier.

Recent revelations indicate that Iran's influence apparatus enjoys significant resources from the regime. Dozens of operatives work under special Revolutionary Guard units whose sole purpose is to run influence campaigns not only in Israel but also in the US and the UK. It must be assumed that some of these operatives are already preparing their systems for Israel's Election Day.

To counter these efforts and safeguard the integrity of the vote, relevant Israeli authorities must prepare for Iranian influence operations that are aimed specifically at the election. The understanding must be clear: preparations are already underway or about to begin.

The primary goal must be to identify all Iranian assets that have been deployed, are currently being deployed, or will be deployed to influence the upcoming election. This will not be easy. Iran has significantly improved its methods in recent years and now designs its assets to be distinctly different from one another, making them harder to detect.

A related challenge is the expected use of AI tools by the Iranian regime to improve the credibility of these assets. Iran may even use Israeli influencers, manipulated without their knowledge, to amplify its content. In parallel, Iranian cyber units are expected to cooperate with influence-operation teams to flood social media with information obtained through planned hacks of Israeli websites, all aimed at damaging the election process.

Beyond Israeli government agencies, civil society organizations also play an essential role. These groups must work daily to keep online discourse free of foreign manipulation. Combined efforts between government bodies and experienced civil society monitors, who can identify suspicious activity on social networks, will greatly improve Israel's ability to detect and disrupt Iranian interference.

This is a significant challenge, and Israel's limited success in recent years in curbing Iranian influence operations proves it. But given the potential damage Iran can cause, it is crucial to invest the necessary resources to counter these efforts. Iran's capability to harm Israel's election process must not be underestimated.

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President Joe Biden reaffirmed his unwavering support for Israel and pledged to continue working to free all remaining hostages during the White House Hanukkah reception Monday night, ABC News reported.

"I know this year's Hanukkah falls on the hearts that are still very heavy. It's the second Hanukkah since the horrors of Oct. 7. Over 1,000 slaughtered, hundreds taken hostage, unspeakable sexual violence, and so much more. The trauma of that day and its aftermath is still raw and ongoing," Biden said at the East Room gathering.

The president highlighted his administration's efforts in securing the release of hostages held in Gaza. "I've gotten over 100 hostages out. I will not stop until I get every single one of them home," he said.

Speaking about the rise in antisemitic incidents, Biden emphasized his longstanding commitment to Israel. "I've said many times before, my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people and security of Israel and its right to exist as an independent nation-state remains ironclad," he declared.

During his remarks, Biden shared a personal tradition of taking each of his grandchildren to concentration camps in Europe to ensure they understand the Holocaust's magnitude. "I wanted them to know that you couldn't pretend it didn't happen, and it should never happen again," he explained.

The president, reiterating a sentiment he has expressed throughout his career, added: "And so I learned a long time ago, you don't have to be a Jew to be a Zionist. I'm a Zionist."

The Hanukkah reception followed Sunday's Democratic National Committee holiday event, where Biden, accompanied by Vice President Kamala Harris, reflected on his administration's impact. "The one thing I've always believed about public service, and especially about the presidency, is the importance of asking yourself: 'Have we left the country in better shape than we found it?'" Biden said.

"Today, I can say, with every fiber of my being, of all my heart, the answer to that question is a resounding 'yes.' Because of all of you assembled here, we can be proud we're leaving America in a better place today than we came here four years ago," Biden said.

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President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris issued statements Sunday commemorating the sixth anniversary of the mass shooting at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, which claimed 11 Jewish lives in what remains the deadliest antisemitic attack in US history, JNS reported.

The 2018 attack occurred at 10:30 a.m. during Shabbat morning services when an armed assailant killed 11 worshippers and wounded six others, including responding law enforcement officers. Harris described how "a white supremacist used a weapon of war to murder 11 precious souls and wound many more at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood," calling it an "unspeakable act – fueled by antisemitic hate."

Today marks 6 years since the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting, where a gunman opened fire on the congregation during Shabbat morning services and killed 11 people.

Last week, someone stole the synagogue's memorial plaque for the victims in an act of hate.

Tree of Life's Rabbi… pic.twitter.com/3beM7tgMDu

— Hen Mazzig (@HenMazzig) October 27, 2024

 According to the White House release, she emphasized her longstanding commitment to fighting antisemitism, stating, "This work is not new for me. I have spent my entire career fighting antisemitism." Harris continued, "Since the beginning of our administration, we have secured record funding for the physical security of nonprofits and faith-based institutions around the country, including synagogues, Jewish Community Centers, and Jewish day schools." She highlighted the groundbreaking this summer of "the nation's first museum and education center on the history of antisemitism in America" at the synagogue site.

"It shattered families, pierced the heart of the Jewish community, and struck the soul of our nation," Biden said in his statement. The president noted that this year's anniversary falls close to the first anniversary of the Oct 7, 2023 Hamas attacks in Israel. He emphasized that the trauma from both events is "not only raw but exacerbated by the appalling surge of antisemitism against Jews in America and around the world."

On combatting antisemitism, Biden quoted the Talmudic saying "It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it." Both leaders outlined their administration's efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses and enhance gun control measures.

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In a leaked video, former US President Donald Trump is seen riding in a golf cart alongside his son Barron, engaging with several individuals. At one point, Trump hands a $100 bill to one of them.

LEAKED VIDEO: Trump on Biden he's "quitting the race.. I got him out" he's an "old broken-down pile of crap… Now we have Kamala. She's so f—king bad"

pic.twitter.com/G9eLy1hmIc

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 4, 2024

"How did I do in the debate the other night? I kicked that old, broken-down pile of crap. He's a bad guy. I got him out of the race," Trump said, referring to President Joe Biden.

Trump continued his verbal assault, saying, "And that means we have Kamala, I think she's going to be better. She's so bad, she's so pathetic. Can you imagine that guy [Biden] dealing with Putin and the president of China, who is a very tough guy? But they've announced that he's probably quitting. I just keep knocking them out, right?" 

This is the first recorded instance of Trump commenting after the debate, which has precipitated a severe crisis within the Democratic party as pressure mounts on Biden to withdraw from the presidential race. On Wednesday, The New York Times reported that Biden himself is considering stepping down, though the White House denied the story.

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In a crucial moment for British politics, millions of voters across the UK are set to cast their ballots on Thursday, July 4 – a significant day for Americans as well – in the country's first general election in nearly five years. This election is widely regarded as the most pivotal since World War II. The outcome of this election could reshape the political landscape, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party facing an uphill battle to retain power after 14 years at the helm.

UK heads to the polls: Everything you need to know about the general election#UnitedKingdom #Rishi_Sunak #Elections2024 #GeneralElections2024 #keirstarmer #ConservativeParty #LabourParty pic.twitter.com/HRwiG9YS5w

— Israel Hayom English (@IsraelHayomEng) July 3, 2024

The election comes at a time of significant economic challenges and political turbulence, with the ruling Conservatives struggling to maintain their grip on power amid criticism over their handling of various issues, from the economy to immigration. Opinion polls suggest a strong lead for the opposition Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, who has focused his campaign on the promise of change.

How does it work? 

Under the UK's "first past the post" electoral system, voters will elect 650 Members of Parliament (MPs) to represent constituencies across the country. The leader of the party that secures a majority in the House of Commons, either alone or through a coalition, will become the next Prime Minister.

Who are the key contenders and party leaders? 

Prime Minister Sunak, 44, who took office in October 2022 following the short-lived premiership of Liz Truss, faces an arduous task in convincing voters that his party deserves another term. The Conservatives are campaigning on promises of economic growth, tax cuts, and increased spending on healthcare and defense. Sunak stated, "We are the party that will deliver a stronger economy and cut taxes by some 17 billion pounds per year."

In contrast, Labour leader Keir Starmer, 61, has positioned himself as the candidate for change. His party is pledging to boost investment in infrastructure, establish a state-owned clean power company, and address issues in the National Health Service. Starmer emphasized, "We will promote wealth creation and improve Britain's infrastructure under a 10-year strategy."

The election also features other significant players, including the Liberal Democrats led by Ed Davey, the Scottish National Party under John Swinney, and the newly prominent Reform UK, fronted by the controversial figure Nigel Farage.

Why are the Conservatives criticized? 

The Conservatives' challenges extend beyond Labour's resurgence. They face criticism over their handling of the economy, immigration, and public services. The party has been marred by scandals, including the "partygate" affair that led to Boris Johnson's downfall and Liz Truss's disastrous mini-budget that roiled financial markets.

Immigration has emerged as a key election issue, with the government's controversial plan to deport some asylum seekers to Rwanda drawing both support and fierce criticism. The Conservatives have pledged to cap immigration numbers, while Reform UK has taken a harder line, promising to freeze "nonessential immigration."

Environmental policies have also come under scrutiny, with Sunak facing criticism for rolling back some green commitments. The Green Party, though a minor player in terms of parliamentary representation, has pushed for more aggressive climate action.

As Britain approaches this pivotal election, the stakes are high. The outcome will not only determine the country's leadership but also shape its approach to critical issues such as economic recovery, healthcare reform, immigration policy, and climate change in the years to come.

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In a shocking turn of events, Ludivine Daoudi, a candidate for France's far-right Rassemblement National (RN) party, is set to withdraw from the second round of parliamentary elections following the emergence of a controversial photograph. The image, which circulated on social media, shows Daoudi wearing a Nazi-era Luftwaffe cap adorned with a swastika.

Ludivine Daoudi, la candidate du RN sur la 1e circonscription du Calvados, est portée disparue depuis le début de la campagne.

Quand on regarde ses réseaux sociaux, on comprend mieux pourquoi.

Le 7 juillet, pas une seule voix pour ces immondes fascistes. pic.twitter.com/qRL8hwLZwm

— Emma Fourreau (@emma_frr) July 1, 2024

Philippe Chapron, head of the local RN branch, confirmed the decision in an interview with France Bleu Normandie on Tuesday. "The candidacy will be withdrawn as of today," Chapron stated, indicating that the decision came directly from RN headquarters.

Daoudi had initially secured her place in the runoff after garnering 19.95% of the vote on Sunday, June 30, in Normandy's 1st constituency of Calvados. However, the emergence of the controversial photograph abruptly halted her campaign.

According to Chapron, Daoudi doesn't deny the authenticity of the image. He explained, "She took the photo several years ago at an arms market" in Normandy. The revelation has sparked widespread condemnation and raised questions about the vetting process for political candidates.

The photograph was first shared by Emma Fourreau, a candidate for the left-wing Nouveau Front Populaire alliance, who finished second in the constituency with 34.82% of the votes. Fourreau posted the image on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), along with a pointed message: "Ludivine Daoudi, the RN candidate for the 1st constituency of Calvados, has been missing since the start of the campaign. When you look at her social media, it's easy to understand why."

This incident is not isolated within the RN party. Throughout the electoral campaign, several RN candidates have faced scrutiny for posting racist, antisemitic, and insulting messages on social media platforms. These revelations have cast a shadow over the party's attempts to distance itself from its controversial past and present a more mainstream image to French voters.

As the second round of the French parliamentary elections approaches, this development is likely to impact the political landscape in the Calvados region and potentially influence voter perceptions of the Rassemblement National on a national scale.

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In a development that could impact operations at two of former president Donald Trump's golf clubs, New Jersey regulators have scheduled a July 19 hearing to decide on the renewal of liquor licenses for these properties. This move comes in the wake of Trump's recent felony conviction in New York.

The hearing, set just over a week after Trump's scheduled sentencing in New York on July 11, will focus on the golf courses in Colts Neck and Bedminster. At issue is a New Jersey law that prohibits individuals convicted of crimes "involving moral turpitude" from holding liquor licenses, according to a spokesperson from the New Jersey attorney general's office.

Trump's legal troubles stem from his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records in a New York court, marking him as the first former US president to be convicted of a felony. Prosecutors alleged that these falsifications were aimed at concealing a payment to an adult film actress to prevent her from speaking about an alleged affair with Trump before the 2016 election. Trump has consistently denied the affair.

The attorney general's office spokesperson stated, "A review by ABC [Alcohol Beverage Control] indicates that Mr. Trump maintains a direct beneficial interest in the three liquor licenses through the receipt of revenues and profits from them, as the sole beneficiary of the Donald J. Trump Revocable Trust."

However, the Trump Organization has pushed back against the scrutiny. A spokesperson for the organization told CNN, "As previously stated, President Trump is not the holder of any liquor license in New Jersey, and he is not an officer, director, or operator of any entity that holds a liquor license in New Jersey." They added, "We sincerely hope that this investigation is not political in nature, and given the foregoing, we feel confident that our licenses will remain unaffected."

The liquor licenses for the Colts Neck and Bedminster golf courses are set to expire on Sunday. Until the hearing, the clubs will be permitted to sell alcohol under a state-issued temporary 90-day permit, the attorney general's office spokesperson confirmed to CNN.

During the upcoming hearing, "the applicant bears the burden of proof to demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that they remain qualified to maintain licensure, which includes a review of any beneficiaries of the licenses," the spokesperson explained.

It's worth noting that the liquor license for Trump's third New Jersey golf course in Pine Hill was renewed on June 3. However, the ABC has declined further comment on the status of that license pending the outcome of the hearing for the Colts Neck and Lamington Farm Club licenses.

As this situation unfolds, it highlights the potential far-reaching consequences of Trump's legal challenges on his business interests. The outcome of the July 19 hearing could have significant implications for the operation of these high-profile golf clubs in New Jersey.

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You're likely either not a US citizen or living under a rock if you don't know Donald J. Trump, as the former US president rarely has a dull moment, dominating headlines worldwide. But beyond politics, how much do you really know about the Republican candidate for the upcoming elections? We've gathered 10 facts you should know about Trump:

10 facts you should know about Trump pic.twitter.com/ClmwNJfrXj

— Israel Hayom English (@IsraelHayomEng) June 27, 2024

1. Donald Trump's net worth is estimated at $2.6 billion. Despite his immense wealth, his favorite food is McDonald's hamburgers.
2. Trump is known for his germaphobia, frequently using hand sanitizer and avoiding handshakes due to his aversion to germs.
3. Trump is the only president who had never held public office before entering the Oval Office.

   

4. At 13, young Donald began working in his father Fred's real estate business. Interestingly, Fred was born to German immigrants whose family name was originally Drumpff. Trump's mother, Mary, was born in Scotland.
5. Trump abhors alcohol due to the tragic loss of his older brother Fred Jr., who died at the age of 42 after battling a severe alcohol addiction.
6. Trump has five children from three different wives. There is a 28-year age gap between his eldest son, Donald Jr., and his youngest child, Barron.
7. Before entering politics, Trump made cameo appearances in films such as "Home Alone 2" and "Zoolander."

   

8. Trump gained notoriety as a successful businessman and hosted the reality TV show "The Apprentice," where he famously uttered the catchphrase "You're fired!"
9. While Trump himself has never been fired, he has experienced several bankruptcies throughout his career, yet he has always managed to bounce back.

   

10. Trump holds the distinction of being the first US president to be impeached twice and the first to be convicted of criminal charges.

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The Democratic primary elections in New York's 16th Congressional District concluded Tuesday with moderate candidate George Latimer defeating incumbent Representative Jamal Bowman, who is affiliated with the progressive faction of the party. Latimer secured over 55% of the vote. Bowman became the first member of the progressive "Squad" to lose a re-election bid after campaigning heavily on his stance regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict, and at one point accused Israel of carrying out a genocide in its operations to eliminate Hamas following the Oct. 7 atrocities.

In recent months, Bowman had made statements against Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza. He was accused of denying the acts of rape committed by Hamas on October 7.  He also opposed the Congressional resolution supporting Israel after the Hamas massacre on October 7. At a campaign event this week, Jamal Bowman lashed out, saying, "We're going to show those f***ing AIPAC people the power of the South Bronx. What am I supposed to do? You're coming after me, my family, my children, am I not supposed to fight back? We're going to show who we are. We're going to show them what it's about."

During a pro-Palestinian rally last November, reports circulated that Bowman claimed, "Israel is using propaganda that began with the siege in Gaza. There is still no evidence of babies with severed heads or women being raped. But they keep using this false propaganda."

He later apologized for his remarks, telling Politico, "What Hamas did on October 7 was a war crime, and they must release all the hostages." He emphasized that he supported the resolution condemning Hamas's use of rape and sexual violence.

As a working-class kid in Mt Vernon, I watched my parents strive to give me the best life possible. When I graduated high school on Memorial Field, my mom cried.

She never dreamed I would be here. But tonight the voters spoke & I'm proud to be your Democratic Nominee for #NY16 pic.twitter.com/fAb3A1NiyU

— George Latimer (@LatimerforNY) June 26, 2024

 Latimer, considered a moderate Democrat, enjoyed the support of the AIPAC lobby group in his current race. Federal Election Commission records show AIPAC spent around $15 million in favor of Latimer, as reported by ABC. The funding was intended for purchasing ads against Bowman, who in turn attacked AIPAC for its efforts to boost his rival.

During the campaign, Bowman received backing from members of "The Squad," associated with the far-left wing of the Democratic Party. His progressive colleague, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, handily defeated her opponent in District 14 with over 80% of the vote. Earlier, he also secured the endorsement of Senator Bernie Sanders, known for his progressive stances. Latimer, on the other hand, received the backing of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

A mid-June poll by Emerson College indicated Latimer leading Bowman by 17 percentage points. Regardless of the winner, the district's seat is expected to remain in Democratic hands in an election year that will shape the House of Representatives.

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Joe Biden is undoubtedly an integral part of US politics with quite a lengthy career, having spent over half of his life in public service. After 50 years of consistent media coverage and famous quotes, is there anything you don't know about the president? There always is, which is why we've gathered 10 facts you should know about the Democratic candidate for the upcoming elections:

10 facts you should know about Biden pic.twitter.com/BNycS0TRRV

— Israel Hayom English (@IsraelHayomEng) June 27, 2024

1. Biden struggled with a severe stutter as a child but overcame this obstacle through perseverance and practice.
2. Biden and his wife Jill moved into the White House with their two dogs, Champ and Major. Champ passed away in 2021, and Major was eventually sent away after an incident where he bit security personnel.
3. Even at 81 years old, Biden has an insatiable sweet tooth. His favorite indulgence is chocolate chip ice cream.
4. Biden is fond of aviator sunglasses and frequently dons them during public appearances and even meetings with world leaders, a habit that has granted him the nickname "Aviator Joe" by the New York Times.
5. Biden loves football and was an accomplished player in high school. In his later years, he became an avid cyclist, though he was captured on camera falling off his bike on several occasions.
6. At 29, Biden was elected to the Senate, making him one of the youngest senators in US history. In 2020, at 78 years old, Biden was elected as President, making him the oldest president in US history.
7. Biden is enamored with trains; during his time as a senator, he commuted daily by train for 35 years, earning him the nickname "Amtrak Joe" after the American rail corporation.
8. Biden has endured numerous tragedies in his life. His first wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident. When Jill, his second wife, entered his life, his sons immediately embraced her as their mother, and they were overjoyed when Biden and Jill married.
9. The Catholic Biden chose to use an ancient family Bible, dating back to 1893, for every oath of office, including his presidential inauguration. Over the years, his massive 5-inch thick, 14-pound Bible has garnered significant attention due to its extraordinary size and weight.
10. Biden identifies as a Zionist and enjoys recounting a meeting with former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir, during which she told him, "We Israelis have a secret weapon. We have nowhere else to go. " This quote profoundly impacted him.

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