Aryeh Deri Urges Right-Wing Unity Under Netanyahu to Prevent Vote Splitting

Following a private meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, Shas party leader Aryeh Deri appeared on Channel 14's "The Patriots" program to address the challenges facing the Israeli right-wing bloc. Deri warned that internal divisions and splintering among right-wing parties pose the greatest threat to their political success, rather than opposition forces or the media. He called for the right-wing factions to unite into a single large party under Netanyahu's leadership, emphasizing the shared goal of forming a right-wing government.

Deri highlighted the importance of unity by noting that the right-wing bloc currently holds around 62-63 Knesset seats, but vote splitting could cost them crucial mandates. He stressed the strategic significance of the next government term, which would involve appointing eight Supreme Court justices, as well as key legal officials such as the state attorney and comptroller. When asked about potentially joining forces with smaller right-wing figures like Avi Maoz to prevent vote loss, Deri said it depends on whether those figures truly have significant voter support, but stressed the need to consolidate votes to avoid losing mandates.

However, Deri ruled out uniting with Maoz or Moshe Feiglin, citing ideological differences. He underscored Shas's unique role within the right-wing bloc as the guardian of Jewish identity and religious services, including overseeing religious affairs such as Sabbath observance, kosher certification, and marriage. Deri noted that Shas has historically borne the political costs of these responsibilities, choosing social portfolios over more prestigious ministries, which reinforces the party's distinct position within the right-wing coalition.