Netanyahu Approves Deal With Under-Investigation Rabbi's Party to Exit Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed an agreement to advance legislation allowing a non-Member of Knesset (MK) to be appointed as a deputy minister. This is a key condition of a deal with the AHI party, led by Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Abardjil, which has withdrawn from elections and will support Likud. In return, an AHI representative will receive a government position without being an MK. The confirmation came during a phone call on October 25, 2026, following a meeting between Education Minister Yoav Kisch and AHI representatives on October 23, 2026. Video footage of the negotiations was released by Channel 13 news.

According to the plan presented by Kisch, an AHI representative is to become a deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Office. Likud will attempt to amend the law to permit the appointment of individuals who are not MKs. An alternative plan is in place: if amending the law proves difficult or is delayed, AHI can select an existing MK, either from Likud or Otzma Yehudit, to be appointed as a deputy minister coordinating agreed-upon issues.

One AHI representative insisted on Netanyahu's personal confirmation, to which the Prime Minister responded, "I fully agree." The deal also includes an arrangement regarding army conscription: if Likud leads the next government, yeshiva students will receive exemptions, while those not studying will be conscripted. This aspect is expected to provoke backlash from traditional ultra-Orthodox parties.

Prior to AHI's withdrawal, Rabbi Abardjil faced significant pressure. Deputy Minister Almog Cohen was also involved in efforts to persuade him to exit the race. On October 23, 2026, Likud lawyer Lior Katzav, brother of former president Moshe Katsav, visited Netivot, Abardjil's stronghold. Former Chief Rabbi of Israel Shlomo Moshe Amar also participated in negotiations, alongside Netivot Mayor Yehiel Zoar and Ofakim Mayor Itzik Danino.

In a recording released on October 23, Netanyahu praised Abardjil for withdrawing and preventing a loss of right-wing votes, stating, "You care about our people." The agreed-upon letter explaining AHI's withdrawal cited concern for Israel's existence and society, claiming all of AHI's goals had been achieved. Abardjil made his decision after consulting with Rabbi Amar.

Kisch stated he negotiated on Netanyahu's behalf, with Likud to advance AHI's key issues. He asserted the agreement prevented the loss of tens of thousands of right-wing votes that could have aided the formation of a left-wing government led by Gadi Eisenkot, Yair Golan, and Mansour Abbas.

Rabbi Abardjil is suspected of serious sexual offenses. In June 2025, Ynet reported allegations of sexual assault against women and girls. Police at the time reported suspicions of indecent acts, including with force or threats, obstruction of justice, extortion with threats, and sexual harassment. Investigators believe the crimes against multiple victims occurred over several years. Police described Abardjil as a community rabbi highly respected by many in Netivot.