Shas Leader Deri Caught on Tape Criticizing Coalition Allies

Recordings released Thursday reveal Arie Deri, chairman of the Shas party, expressing strong criticism of his coalition partners, particularly regarding their handling of the conscription law concerning yeshiva students. Deri lamented that Likud members were not engaged in the discussions, stating, "It doesn't move them." He added that if there had been a unified effort, "it would have looked different." Deri, whose party is part of the government, described the situation as "exile within exile," questioning which was more difficult. He also attacked Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz, accusing him of "confusing people." Regarding the chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, who dealt with the conscription law, Deri commented, "He is an exception but not well-versed in the details?"

In separate closed-door conversations, Deri reportedly promised close associates that he would prevent Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party, from returning as Finance Minister in the next government. "There will be no government after the elections in which Smotrich is again Finance Minister and we are sitting in it," Deri was quoted as saying. Haredi parties are reportedly angered by Smotrich, whom they claim harmed the Haredi public by allocating billions of shekels to settlements, including for farm construction. Deri indicated in his conversations that he had approached the United Torah Judaism party to form a bloc that would prevent Smotrich's return to the Finance Ministry.