New Haredi Party Seeks Broader Israeli Integration
A new political party, 'Ha'tzibur Ha'haredi' (The Haredi Public), is emerging within Israel's Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, aiming to shift away from a politics focused solely on sectoral interests and budget allocations towards greater integration into Israeli society. This movement challenges the traditional Haredi political stance, often characterized by a perceived detachment from national responsibilities like military service and economic contribution, and a focus primarily on funding for Torah institutions.
The party's platform emphasizes that Haredim are an integral part of the Israeli narrative and can take responsibility for national issues, including economic stability and security, without compromising their religious identity. Rabbi Yehoshua Pepper, the party's rabbinical committee chairman, stated that the initiative represents a move from "politics of fear to politics of hope," enabling young Haredim to build responsible lives within the Jewish state and contribute to its strength and defense.
Led by Moti Lightner, the party advocates for meaningful service for those not engaged in full-time Torah study, alongside robust educational programs to equip Haredi youth for economic and societal contributions. This includes working with the IDF to create tailored service tracks and expanding Haredi-friendly schools that teach core secular subjects alongside religious studies.
'Ha'tzibur Ha'haredi' was formed in response to a perceived lack of representation for working Haredim, immigrants, and those seeking a more inclusive approach within existing Haredi parties. The party also addresses concerns about the public humiliation of Haredi soldiers, smear campaigns against reform-minded rabbis, and corruption within some Haredi institutions. They highlight the issue of Haredi youth dropping out of educational frameworks without viable paths for professional and national integration.
The party's bold move includes placing two women at the top of its Knesset list, a significant precedent for the Haredi community. Current polls suggest the party has garnered the support of around 10% of Haredi voters, but it requires additional support from non-Haredi voters to overcome the electoral threshold for the Knesset.
