Shas to Stay Out as United Torah Judaism Eyes Coalition Shifts
Political commentator Itzik Sudri discussed potential coalition shifts, highlighting that while United Torah Judaism explores contacts with the opposition, Shas remains firmly allied with the right-wing bloc.
Political commentator Itzik Sudri stated on Thursday in an interview with 103fm that while United Torah Judaism may be exploring political shifts, Shas remains firmly aligned with the right-wing bloc. Sudri addressed the underlying differences between Ashkenazi and Sephardic ultra-Orthodox leaderships and the ongoing negotiations surrounding the military draft law.
Sudri noted that Shas leader Aryeh Deri maintains an unassailable position and deep-rooted ties with the traditionalist and right-wing public. According to him, Shas is unlikely to join a coalition aimed at replacing the government, given its broad voter base extending from the Haredi core to traditional communities across cities like Ashkelon.
The Role of United Torah Judaism
Turning to United Torah Judaism, Sudri explained that the Ashkenazi Haredi faction is currently leading discussions with the opposition bloc, driven by the supreme objective of altering the current political leadership. He emphasized that the opposition bloc shows immense motivation to compromise on the conscription law to accommodate ultra-Orthodox interests.
However, Sudri pointed out significant hurdles remain, including the need to bridge internal factions within United Torah Judaism, secure full endorsement from rabbinical authorities, and withstand future legal scrutiny at the High Court of Justice. In addition to securing the status of seminary students, demands from factions like Degel HaTorah encompass preserving the religious status quo and maintaining autonomy within the Haredi educational system.
