United Torah Judaism Open to Coalition Talks on Draft Solution

The ultra-Orthodox party United Torah Judaism (UTJ) is open to negotiating with any political entity, including a potential government led by Gadi Eisenkot, provided a legislative solution is presented for the conscription of yeshiva students. Avraham Yoastman, UTJ's representative on the Central Elections Committee, stated in an interview with Kan Reshet Bet that the party has not yet committed to any specific coalition. Their decision hinges primarily on the legal arrangement for Torah scholars.

Yoastman described UTJ's current political standing as "a party on the shelf," emphasizing that their potential entry into a government is not limited to a single prime ministerial candidate. He explicitly stated that whoever first presents a satisfactory legislative solution to the draft issue would receive a positive response from UTJ.

The party representative stressed that future coalition negotiations must center on the draft issue, requiring detailed discussions and legal codification rather than mere declarations or principled agreements. "There will be negotiations about the law, about what the Haredim can live with and what they cannot," he said.

Yoastman also noted a shift in attitudes within the Haredi public regarding potential draft arrangements. He indicated that Haredim are now in a different place and willing to consider various options. As an example, he cited remarks by MK Yitzhak Pindrus during consultations with President Yitzhak Herzog, suggesting that sanctions could be imposed on those who do not engage in Torah study.