A wave of menacing messages flooded the smartphones of Israeli journalists and civilians on Sunday, marking a disturbing escalation in digital intimidation tactics aimed at the country's media and leadership.
The threats, delivered via popular messaging platforms WhatsApp and Telegram, specifically named high-ranking Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leader Yair Lapid, and controversial far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Also targeted were the heads of Israel's intelligence agencies and senior military figures.
"Sleep with your eyes open at night," read one message, according to recipients who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. "We are very close to you, and all your personal information and that of your family is in our hands."
The source of the threats remains unclear, though cybersecurity experts noted the use of international phone numbers, primarily from Chile and Indonesia, in an apparent attempt to obscure their origin.
This digital barrage comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with Israel facing multiple security challenges on its borders and internally.
The inclusion of both government and opposition figures in the threats suggests a broader attempt to sow fear and discord across Israel's political spectrum.
Kan News, Israel's public broadcaster, reported that several of its journalists were among those targeted. The network has been at the forefront of covering recent political upheavals and security incidents in the country.
Israeli authorities have not yet publicly commented on the threats. However, a senior security official, speaking on background due to the sensitivity of the matter, stated that the incidents were being "thoroughly investigated at the highest levels."
The messages also alluded to previous communication attempts, though it remains unconfirmed whether such prior contact actually occurred. This detail adds another layer of psychological pressure, implying ongoing surveillance of the recipients