Former Deri Associate Predicts Shas Will Join Eisenkot Government

Barak Sari, a former associate of Arie Deri, predicted that if the United Torah Judaism party joins a government led by Gadi Eisenkot, the Shas party will quickly follow. Sari stated that Shas would "come on all fours" to join such a coalition.

Sari also commented on the possibility of a Netanyahu-led government, suggesting that Netanyahu might be willing to compromise on his position as prime minister if an alternative government becomes a realistic option. He believes Netanyahu fears being left in the opposition for four years, similar to the "change government" formed in 2021, and would therefore seek to avoid that outcome. Eli Ohana, however, rejected this assessment of Netanyahu's considerations.

Sari anticipates that Eisenkot will be the first to receive the mandate to form a government, though he cautioned this doesn't guarantee success. He suggested that a failed first attempt might increase pressure on parties to compromise to avoid further elections. Sari also pointed to a move to elect a new Knesset speaker as a step the "change bloc" aims to advance before coalition talks are finalized.

Regarding the issue of Haredi enlistment, Sari asserted that Haredi soldiers are essential for the IDF, estimating thousands are needed. He argued that the army's needs cannot be met by continuing to burden reservists with hundreds of service days annually while a significant portion of the population remains exempt. Ohana criticized opponents of Netanyahu, including Ben Caspit, Ruviv Drucker, the Haaretz newspaper, and Ehud Barak, for allegedly softening their stances on Haredi enlistment due to the prospect of political cooperation with Haredi parties. Ohana labeled this as "hypocrisy of the highest order" driven by a desire to replace Netanyahu, while also stating his personal support for Haredi conscription.

Ohana also addressed potential cooperation with Arab parties, distinguishing between the Arab public and their political leaders. He cited his positive experiences with Arab football players and coaches as evidence of coexistence. "I have nothing against Arabs. I have more than half a thing against their leaders," Ohana stated, criticizing their refusal to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization. He declared that if Netanyahu were to include Ra'am or another Arab party in a right-wing government, he would not vote for Netanyahu.