Author Finds New Hope for Israeli Politics in Emerging Haredi Party
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
An Israeli writer, disillusioned with the political landscape and previously casting blank ballots, found a party to vote for in the upcoming elections: the new Haredi party "The Haredi Public." After attending their rally, he was impressed by the diverse and hopeful atmosphere, seeing it as a potential force for national unity and responsibility. He believes the party offers a much-needed alternative for all Israelis seeking genuine partnership and a break from the country's political divisions.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- An Israeli writer found a party to vote for in the upcoming elections after years of casting blank ballots.
- He was disappointed by the familiar political divisions and lack of a "third bloc" to break the cycle.
- Attending a rally for the new Haredi party "The Haredi Public" changed his perspective.
- He observed a diverse and hopeful gathering, free from typical political animosity and ego.
- The author believes the party offers a chance for national responsibility and unity for all Israelis.
- He urges citizens to vote for the party to break the "bleeding political loop."
With elections just over a week away, the author expresses a newfound sense of purpose, having finally found a party to vote for after years of feeling politically disenfranchised. He recounts past elections where he felt compelled to cast a blank ballot due to a lack of suitable options and a disillusionment with the political landscape. This election, he had hoped for a significant shift, perhaps a "third bloc" to break the cycle of "Netanyahu or not Netanyahu" politics, but was disappointed to find the same entrenched political divisions.
Upon reviewing the submitted party lists, the author observed a familiar scenario: two main blocs, ironically not divided by left and right, neither of which appeared capable of forming a stable government. This reminded him of the biblical saying, "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun." This sentiment was amplified in the post-October 7th era.
However, attending a recent rally for the new Haredi party, "The Haredi Public," led by Motty Lightner and Dr. Nehumi Yaffe, changed his perspective. Initially skeptical, he was drawn to the party's potential as a fresh alternative to what he perceives as corrupt and divisive established Haredi parties. He acknowledged the difficulty of rectifying long-standing issues but was impressed by the new party's presentation.
At the rally, the author witnessed a diverse gathering of Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jews, Lithuanians, Hasidim, Religious Zionists, and secular individuals. He saw young and old, men and women, yeshiva students and soldiers, all smiling and exhibiting generosity and responsibility. The presence of the Israeli flag alongside the party's banner symbolized a "correction" and hope, free from the usual political maneuvering, ego, and animosity.
This experience led him to decide to vote for "The Haredi Public," believing it offers a genuine opportunity for national responsibility, statemanship, and mutual guarantee, without compromising identity or fostering hatred. He argues that the party's appeal extends beyond the Haredi community, offering a breath of fresh air for secular and Religious Zionist Israelis who desire a true partner from the Haredi sector. He concludes that voting for this party is a chance to break the "bleeding political loop" and build a shared future based on respect and hope.