Shas Rejects Claims It Would Join Left-Wing Government Over Draft Crisis
Shas dismissed suggestions by a United Torah Judaism lawmaker that it would join a left-wing government to resolve the ultra-Orthodox draft crisis, reaffirming its strict political red lines.
Shas firmly rejected remarks made by United Torah Judaism MK Yitzhak Pindrus, who suggested that Shas might join a government backed by left-wing parties if such an administration offered a solution to the ongoing ultra-Orthodox military conscription crisis.
The controversy erupted following Pindrus's comments regarding the politically sensitive issue of yeshiva student arrests and draft exemptions. Pindrus estimated that if United Torah Judaism successfully secured a practical resolution to the standoff, Shas would follow suit, even if it meant cooperating with the political left.
In a sharp rebuke issued on Saturday evening, Shas dismissed the speculation entirely. According to the movement, instructions from the Council of Torah Sages explicitly forbid any negotiations or partnerships with left-wing political factions. Shas officials urged lawmakers from allied parties to refrain from speaking on its behalf.
While emphasizing that resolving the detention of yeshiva students remains a top priority, Shas insiders maintained that efforts to address the crisis will strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the rabbinical leadership, independent of any potential coalitions with the left.
