Golan Offers Partnership to Haredim on Condition of Shared Burden

Yair Golan, Chairman of the Democrats party, has declared his willingness to form a political partnership with Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties to replace the current Netanyahu government. However, Golan stipulated several conditions for such a coalition, emphasizing that it would not be a "blank check." He stated that Haredi parties must agree to the conscription of Haredim into the IDF, greater integration into the workforce, and the operation of public transportation on Shabbat in municipalities that choose to do so.

Golan clarified that his party's offer stems from a genuine desire to establish a "government of change" and does not involve compromising on his party's positions regarding religion and state or the equitable distribution of national burdens. He drew a distinction between his party's approach and that of Prime Minister Netanyahu, stating, "Unlike Netanyahu, we will not go all the way to Bnei Brak or Mea Shearim. Whoever wants a partnership with us will have to meet us in Ramat Gan."

The chairman stressed that his aim is not to harm or punish the Haredi public but to reach agreements based on shared responsibility. He specifically called for the expansion of Haredi enlistment in the army and for measures to increase their participation in the labor market, ensuring all children receive the tools for dignified employment. Golan argued that the middle class cannot continue to bear the economic and security burdens alone.

Regarding Shabbat, Golan asserted that just as the Haredi lifestyle is respected, so too should secular life be. He expressed the expectation that secular activities and public transportation should be permissible on Shabbat in localities that opt for it. Golan concluded by reiterating that any partnership requires a readiness for these changes, emphasizing mutual responsibility.