Israel's underworld at the ballot box: Who are crime figures backing?

Some of Israel's most prominent organized crime figures revealed their political preferences on Wednesday, with sources close to the Jarushi family indicating support for Ra'am and the Joint List, while associates of Eitan Hiya expressed preference for Yair Golan. The article also reports 88.7% voter turnout among eligible prisoners.

Some of Israel's most prominent organized crime figures have revealed their political preferences ahead of the 2026 elections, according to sources close to them who spoke to Walla. Sources close to the Jarushi family, associated with one of Israel's most prominent crime organizations, indicated support for Ra'am and the Joint List. Associates of Eitan Hiya expressed preference for left-wing politician Yair Golan. The article notes that affiliation with a particular crime organization does not mean members vote the same way, and the information comes from associates, not verified ballots. The piece also reports an 88.7% voter turnout among eligible prisoners and detainees in Israeli prisons on election day, with voting conducted by secret ballot under IPS supervision. The article highlights the paradox that individuals associated with criminal organizations retain the right to vote and can influence the composition of the Knesset, which determines legal tools for fighting organized crime. The Law for the Protection of the Public from Criminal Organizations, effective since end of 2024, allows courts to impose restrictions on crime organization members without formal indictment under strict conditions.