Ultra-Orthodox Figures Navigate Political Maneuvers and Religious Events

The "Zupnik B'Kikar" column from Kikar HaShabbat reports on various happenings within the ultra-Orthodox community, highlighting political maneuvering, religious observances, and celebrity sightings. A significant political revelation involves a refusal by a member of the Degel HaTorah council to accompany another Rosh Yeshiva to thank MK Uri Maklev for his service, reportedly due to fear of how the new government might perceive such a gesture. This comes amid the backdrop of political list formations for the upcoming Knesset elections.

In other political news, a Haredi Knesset member and his wife successfully influenced a prominent rabbi regarding list placements, with dozens of women expressing interest in political appointments after a call for suitable candidates was made. The column also notes the presence of former Shin Bet head Yoram Cohen at Kikar HaShabbat studios, engaging in a conversation with commentator Yishai Cohen.

The digest also touches upon various religious and social events. Billionaire Mikhail Mirilashvili was seen at Selichot prayers at the Western Wall, while Rabbi Baruch Rosenblum was observed under heavy security during a strengthening tour in Argentina. The article mentions singer Yaakov Shwekey and Mordechai Ben David performing together, and Lipa Schmeltzer expressing his intention to travel to Uman for Rosh Hashanah after years of obstacles.

Further details include observations of various rabbis and public figures participating in Selichot services, blessings, and community events. The column also includes a lighthearted moment where a photographer found an innovative way to document events in extremist Hasidic communities using smart glasses. The report concludes by listing the top five most viewed articles on Kikar HaShabbat this past week, covering topics from technological advancements and political dismissals to intelligence warnings about Iran and immigrant-related incidents.