Ultra-Orthodox Parties Divided on Post-Election Alliances

United Torah Judaism (UTJ) expressed surprise at Avigdor Lieberman's openness to cooperation, while still awaiting a concrete offer from the "change bloc" led by Gadi Eisenkot. UTJ is currently leaning towards not opposing the replacement of the Knesset Speaker but will decide on other Knesset positions based on proposals from Eisenkot and his allies. Meanwhile, senior figures in the Shas party remain skeptical of Lieberman, though they do not rule out joining the "change bloc" if UTJ leads the way.

Netanyahu has not spoken with UTJ since the elections, and Shas has also ceased communication regarding strategic coordination. Senior UTJ officials, including MKs Yaakov Asher, Yitzhak Goldknopf, and Meir Porush, met to prepare for consultations at the President's Residence. The situation within Shas is described as complex, with one source stating the party is functioning without a chairman, an unprecedented situation. MKs Yinon Azulai and Michael Malchieli met with Rabbi Maya for consultations, without Arie Deri present.

Netanyahu, despite difficulties contacting Deri, issued a statement supporting him and Shas, calling them "important partners" and criticizing the media and left for attempting to "crush" the party. He praised Deri's contributions to Israel's security in the cabinet.

Lieberman announced he would recommend Gadi Eisenkot for prime minister and Yair Lapid for Knesset Speaker, but also blamed Eisenkot for the "change bloc's" election failure. Lieberman ruled out joining a Netanyahu-led government, even with a rotation, and rejected a unity government with Netanyahu. He also opposes a minority government, believing it would be short-lived and benefit Netanyahu in subsequent elections. Lieberman stated he would cooperate with any party that accepts his principles, including the conscription law, but did not explicitly rule out cooperation with the ultra-Orthodox parties.