Our laws say they can’t be in or around the polling stations.
They have agreed to abide by our laws.
They know and understand the consequences if they behave otherwise.
That is not a ‘cave’.
But they can if they have permission. You have to take the next to last paragraph into the context. The SOS downplayed the threat. Did not want to appear uncooperative....As the US wishes to do the same thing in other countries. That is to monitor voting.
I could be wrong. But don’t be surprised if I am not.