Likud Fears United Torah Judaism May Back Knesset Speaker Ouster
Likud assesses that Shas will not back the opposition's bid to oust the Knesset Speaker, but fears United Torah Judaism might join the move amid coalition talks.
The Likud party estimates that Shas will not join the initiative to depose the Knesset Speaker, though it harbors concerns regarding a potential defection by United Torah Judaism.
The assessment within Likud unfolds against the backdrop of the opposition's intention to advance the replacement of the Knesset Speaker as a preliminary step toward forming a government and promoting legislation, including the repeal of judicial reform laws.
Likud sources expressed confidence that Shas will remain loyal to the right-wing bloc and refuse to support the ouster of the Knesset Speaker. According to these officials, Shas views such a move as a transparent political maneuver designed to pave the way for a left-wing government, an outcome the party wishes to avoid. Furthermore, Likud circles highlight the close ties and longstanding cooperation between Shas and Likud throughout the outgoing government.
Conversely, Likud officials harbor anxieties concerning the stance of United Torah Judaism. According to party insiders, United Torah Judaism faces a complex dilemma. On one hand, the faction remains part of Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and a natural partner to Likud. On the other hand, it is conducting contacts with the change bloc regarding the draft law and other demands, while exploring the possibility of joining a government led by Gadi Eisenkot.
The core fear within Likud is that United Torah Judaism might view participation in the vote to depose the Knesset Speaker as a tactical move intended to exert pressure on Likud and signal seriousness to the opposition bloc. Likud sources emphasize that even if United Torah Judaism ultimately declines to join the alternative government, the mere support for ousting the Speaker would serve as an alarming indicator of the ultra-Orthodox party's willingness to cooperate with the center-left.
Simultaneously, Likud is closely monitoring the positions of United Torah Judaism, with party officials holding active talks with ultra-Orthodox leaders to dissuade them from aiding the motion. The message conveyed to United Torah Judaism is that deposing the Knesset Speaker constitutes a one-way street that would diminish the future leverage and political influence of the ultra-Orthodox factions.
Representatives for United Torah Judaism declined to officially comment on Likud's assessments, stating only that all options remain under review and that a final decision will be reached at a later stage.
