Haredi Party Rabbi Discusses Internal Politics and Societal Shifts

Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, the spiritual authority for the new "Hacharedi Public" party, discussed the complex identity of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community in Israel in an interview. He acknowledged that the party's name might seem presumptuous to some, but clarified its aim is to provide a political home for thousands of Haredim who feel "ideologically homeless" and do not find themselves represented by existing parties like Shas or United Torah Judaism. Pfeffer, who grew up in Britain, brings a different perspective, asserting that "Haredi-ism" is broad enough to encompass diverse viewpoints and navigate contemporary challenges.

Pfeffer addressed the perceived contradiction between Haredi historical separatism and modern Israeli life. He argued that Haredi politicians' involvement in government over the years has made the community an integral part of national management. He also pointed to significant societal changes, noting that while Haredi women increasingly work in high-tech fields, the community's rhetoric has not kept pace with this reality. The internet, he stated, has broken down previous barriers, necessitating spiritual tools to help Haredim maintain their identity while integrated into broader society, the military, or the workforce.

Addressing fears that modernity could lead to a slippery slope away from religious observance, Pfeffer distinguished between American and Israeli Haredi experiences. He described the American model as one of strength and religious stability, where professionals comfortably engage in Torah study. In contrast, he observed that some Israelis adopting modern paths do so out of frustration, potentially leading to religious compromises. He believes the "foreign" activists within his party feel more liberated to innovate, while Israeli Haredim may still be constrained by societal fears and taboos.

Pfeffer expressed frustration with the political leadership's handling of the conscription issue, stating that the community has not adapted to the post-October 7th reality. He revealed that prominent rabbis in Bnei Brak privately agree with his views on employment and status regulation but are afraid to speak out publicly due to fear of backlash. He cited Rabbi Yitzchak Breitowitz, head of the Ohr Somayach Yeshiva, who publicly supported the party, and mentioned that other significant rabbis support them only in private.

Regarding the party's decision-making, Pfeffer explained it operates on a model of "civil leadership" that consults with rabbis, rather than the traditional model where rabbis dictate. He confirmed a document exists outlining the relationship between the rabbis and the chairman, Motty Leitner, which includes a veto right for rabbis on certain issues, though not all. He defended not publishing this document, comparing it to the internal dynamics of established parties.

Pfeffer also discussed the party's decision to run in national elections rather than focusing on municipal politics, citing the need to influence the national discourse and support institutions like Nezah Yehuda and schools teaching core subjects. He vehemently denied claims that left-wing organizations fund the party, asserting its clear right-wing, conservative stance.

In a personal revelation, Pfeffer shared that he recently enlisted in the IDF's "Stage B" combat training program (Rabbai 03) at age 26, to serve as an example to his community and support Haredi soldiers. He described the experience of being a soldier, taking orders from a 20-year-old instructor, and feeling a sense of belonging and equality. He also addressed the concern about the party potentially splitting the right-wing vote, stating that while they feel responsibility towards the bloc, their presence offers hope to thousands of Haredim and aims for a deep societal connection. He concluded by reflecting on the slow, non-linear nature of progress and the commitment to doing good despite the challenges.