Yair Golan Rules Out Blank Checks for Haredi Parties in Future Government

Yair Golan, head of the Israeli Democratic Party, stated that his party is willing to cooperate with Haredi parties to form a government to replace Benjamin Netanyahu's administration. However, he emphasized that no open-ended concessions would be made, stressing the need for agreements on military conscription, expanding Haredi participation in the workforce, and issues of religion and state. Golan announced on the social media platform X that replacing the current government with a "government of rescue and change" is essential for Israel's future, security, and democratic system. He affirmed his party's commitment to this goal but warned against giving any party a "blank check."

Golan extended an offer of partnership to Haredi parties based on a genuine desire for a government of change, but conditioned it on their willingness to implement reforms, noting that political partnership requires mutual responsibility. Addressing the Haredi public, he clarified that his party does not seek to punish them but to establish a partnership, which cannot be based on unilateral concessions. He contrasted his approach with Netanyahu's, stating, "Unlike Netanyahu, we will not go to Bnei Brak or Mea Shearim. Whoever wants a partnership with us will have to meet us in Ramat Gan."

Golan underscored the necessity of burden-sharing, both economically and in security matters. He stated that Haredim must be integrated into military service and the workforce, ensuring that every child in Israel has the means to earn a dignified living. He also highlighted that the middle class cannot continue to bear the economic and security burdens alone, referencing disputes over Haredi exemption from military service and their economic contributions.

Regarding religion and state, Golan asserted the importance of respecting diverse lifestyles, including the freedom of activity on Saturdays in municipalities led by his party. While his party respects the Haredi way of life, he expects reciprocal respect for secular lifestyles, such as the availability of leisure activities, cafes, and public transportation on Saturdays.

Golan's remarks come amid internal disagreements within the "change bloc" regarding the terms for forming an alternative government. This follows statements by Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, who expressed openness to reconsidering his stance on the conscription law, deviating from his campaign promises. Yaakov Asher, head of the United Torah Judaism party, welcomed Lieberman's comments, viewing them as a sign of flexibility on the conscription issue, a key point of contention in upcoming political negotiations.