Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, delivered a stern warning to Iran, Hezbollah, and other hostile forces on Thursday, declaring that any attempt to exploit Israel’s upcoming elections to carry out attacks or destabilize the country would be met with a devastating Israeli response.

Speaking at the United Nations, Danon addressed concerns that Israel’s enemies could view the election period as an opportunity to launch military provocations, cyberattacks, or other operations intended to undermine the country’s security.

“Do not attempt to exploit Israel’s election period,” Danon warned, directing his message at Hezbollah and Iran.

The ambassador noted that Israelis are preparing to head to the polls in less than two weeks, emphasizing that the democratic process would continue despite threats from hostile actors in the region.

“In 12 days, over seven million voters will cast their ballots in Israel’s elections. This morning, even I cast my ballot at our mission, only a few minutes ago. But today, we must address an alarming reality,” he added.

Danon said Israel was closely following reports suggesting that Iran and its regional allies were considering efforts to take advantage of the political calendar. He made clear that Israel viewed potential threats as extending beyond conventional military attacks to include cyberwarfare and attempts to manipulate public opinion.

“We have seen the reports that Iran, Hezbollah and other extremists in our region are conspiring to take advantage of the election period in Israel. It doesn’t matter if it’s a provocative ballistic missile exercise, a cyber attack or a disinformation campaign.”

The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Israeli officials concerned that Tehran or its allies could attempt to test Israel’s defenses while the country is focused on its national elections, scheduled for October 27.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu issued a similar warning on Wednesday, saying that although he did not favor launching a preemptive strike against Iran before the elections, Israel would respond forcefully to any Iranian attack. Defense Minister Yisroel Katz has also warned Hezbollah that renewed aggression could bring severe Israeli retaliation, including further territorial losses in southern Lebanon.

Danon’s remarks coincided with the start of early voting for Israeli diplomatic personnel stationed overseas. Approximately 4,800 eligible voters at 99 Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide are able to cast their ballots ahead of the general election, including diplomats, other authorized government representatives, and their spouses.

The ambassador himself voted Thursday at Israel’s mission to the United Nations in New York, using the occasion to emphasize that Israel’s democratic process would proceed regardless of threats from its adversaries.

Concluding his remarks, Danon delivered an unequivocal message to Iran, Hezbollah, and any other organization considering action against Israel during the election period.

“We are issuing a clear warning. Anyone who attempts to threaten or attack Israel will face devastating consequences,” Danon concluded.