UK government withholds files on alleged Israeli election interference

The British government has refused to release documents regarding alleged election interference by BlackCore, an Israeli cybersecurity firm. The decision, made by the UK Cabinet Office, cites national security concerns and the need to avoid prejudicing relations with international partners under freedom of information exemptions.

According to the French government agency Viginum, BlackCore is suspected of coordinating hundreds of fake social media accounts to conduct digital influence operations. These operations reportedly targeted Scottish First Minister John Swinney and the Scottish National Party (SNP) during election cycles. Viginum has also linked the firm to potential interference in French municipal elections.

While the UK government withheld the files, the Scottish government released some documents in response to similar requests. These released files suggest that First Minister Swinney and other officials were unaware of the allegations until they were reported in the media.