United Torah Judaism Will Not Commit to Endorsement, Sets Conditions for Government

Member of Knesset Yitzhak Pindrus of the United Torah Judaism party stated that his party identifies with the "camp of Torah scholars" and has not committed to recommending a specific candidate for prime minister. He indicated that Degel HaTorah and Agudat Yisrael will make joint decisions regarding endorsements and votes. Pindrus also warned that if a government is formed without addressing the issue of Torah scholars, his party would likely vote against it, suggesting a potential opposition to a government led by Gantz if the matter is not resolved. He cited a letter from Rabbi Landau as indicating the end of a previous era, implying a shift from the historical alliance with Benjamin Netanyahu.

Pindrus explicitly stated that his party opposes the recent protests and road blockades, asserting that the demonstrations are primarily directed against Haredi Knesset members. He condemned the disruptions caused by road closures, emphasizing that people should not be prevented from reaching work, hospitals, or even personal events like weddings. He also countered the notion that the Haredi lifestyle necessitates not working, stating that many in his community do work and that there is "no value in not working." However, he underscored the central importance of Torah study for his community and the Jewish people.

Furthermore, Pindrus argued that the current political debate extends beyond conscription, framing it as a question of whether a "Haredi existence is possible in the State of Israel." He accused those seeking to harm Haredi institutions, particularly the "Independent Education" and "Maayan Chinuch Torani" networks, of targeting institutions where full core curriculum studies are conducted. Pindrus insisted that the fight is precisely in these institutions, where 100% of the core curriculum is taught, questioning the basis for attacking them.