Ultra-Orthodox Parties Celebrate Lieberman's Concessions, But Don't Guarantee Government Support
Translated & summarized from Haaretz by baba
Ultra-Orthodox parties are celebrating Avigdor Lieberman's willingness to compromise on the military draft exemption, seeing it as a major political victory. They believe they are in an advantageous position regardless of the election outcome. However, forming a government remains a challenge, with the crucial 61st seat dependent on Shas leader Aryeh Deri's decision.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Ultra-Orthodox parties celebrate Avigdor Lieberman's compromise on military draft exemption.
- They feel politically advantageous after years of perceived persecution.
- A left-wing and ultra-Orthodox government formation is still seen as difficult.
- The 61st Knesset seat hinges on Shas leader Aryeh Deri's support.
Ultra-Orthodox parties are reportedly celebrating a significant political shift following Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman's announcement that he is willing to compromise on the military draft exemption issue. Sources within the parties expressed surprise and satisfaction, with one stating that the current situation would have seemed unbelievable just a month prior. After years of what they perceived as persecution, including arrests and economic sanctions, the ultra-Orthodox community feels it has reached a point of advantage, regardless of the political outcome. They believe that if agreements are reached, it will be a success, and if new elections are called, they will have benefited by avoiding criticism over the draft issue.
Despite the celebratory mood, sources caution that forming a left-wing and ultra-Orthodox government remains a distant prospect. For months, Lieberman had been engaged in secret negotiations with the ultra-Orthodox parties through intermediaries. His refusal to recommend Netanyahu was seen as a serious gesture by the parties.
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