What Ultra-Orthodox Protests Cost the Haredi Parties

In a satirical daily commentary, Ariel Shrafer argued that this week’s road blockages by ultra-Orthodox protesters backfired politically. He said the protests did not persuade outsiders, but instead made even neutral observers dislike the Haredi camp more, and told demonstrators that if they want to express their values, they should do it at home, not in the street.

Shrafer also said the disruptions wasted another day of legislation, and warned that with the Knesset set to dissolve in two weeks, important laws needed by the Haredi parties may not pass. In his view, the protesters chose to flex their muscles instead of reaching compromises, and he questioned whether it was worth it.

He added that current polls suggest the next coalition will probably be formed without the Haredi parties, and said the road closures would only speed up that outcome. The piece ends on a mock dramatic note, after first promising one thing the Haredim supposedly gained from the protests, before trailing off.

The video was presented as satire and humor, with no intent to offend. It is part of a recurring daily segment on the Srugim website.