Ultra-Orthodox Party Leader Responds to MK, Urges Support for New Faction

Yaakov Haim Miller, chairman of the new ultra-Orthodox party "Tzeva Shachor" (Black Color), has responded sharply to recent criticism from Member of Knesset Yaakov Asher. Miller expressed shock at Asher's remarks, urging him to retract his attack, apologize, and consider "Tzeva Shachor" a potential partner in strengthening the ultra-Orthodox bloc in the Knesset.

Miller stated that while Asher had previously shown restraint, he has now changed his approach despite current political realities. According to Miller, even if the established ultra-Orthodox parties, Yahadut HaTorah and Shas, maximize their potential, the entire bloc is projected to win only about 16 Knesset seats, representing a loss of approximately seven seats. He attributes this loss to five new seats moving away from traditional parties due to the conscription crisis, and an additional two seats from disillusioned voters who have not voted for these parties in several elections.

Miller explained that the public's anger stems not from a struggle over positions or budgets, but from attempts to advance frameworks that include 50% conscription targets and oversight of those remaining in Torah study. He emphasized that this is not about personal gain but about severe stress and the constant pressure from the army. Miller urged Asher to allow those feeling this pressure to vote for "Tzeva Shachor."

Challenging Asher's stance, Miller proposed that "Tzeva Shachor" could actually increase the ultra-Orthodox bloc's strength by bringing in four to five additional seats. He suggested that Asher should have encouraged those not planning to vote for Shas or Yahadut HaTorah to cast their ballots for "Tzeva Shachor" to prevent their votes from being wasted and to bolster the bloc's representation.

Miller invoked the legacy of Rabbi Schach, asking Asher if he believed himself wiser than the late spiritual leader. He argued that even in Rabbi Schach's time, it was understood that disgruntled voters could not be forced back and needed a political platform within the ultra-Orthodox camp to retain their votes.

Concluding his remarks, Miller pledged that if "Tzeva Shachor" enters the Knesset, it will not seek ministerial positions or a share of resources from the established ultra-Orthodox parties. The party's sole focus, he declared, would be on the issue of conscription and upholding the principle of "Torato Umanuto" (his Torah is his craft), without interfering in the political gains of Shas or Yahadut HaTorah. He reiterated his call for Asher to apologize and urge his supporters to vote for "Tzeva Shachor" if they do not intend to vote for the other two parties.