Shas Leader Deri: We'll Join Coalition If United Torah Judaism Does
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Shas Chairman Arie Deri indicated his party might join a "change government" if United Torah Judaism enters such a coalition, possibly over a conscription deal. Deri stated that if Rabbi Dov Lando directs United Torah Judaism to join Avigdor Lieberman's government, Shas would feel compelled to follow. He also cited a lack of a senior rabbinic figure like Rabbi Ovadia Yosef to justify Shas remaining in the right-wing bloc against such a move.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Shas Chairman Arie Deri says his party may join a "change government" if United Torah Judaism does.
- Deri stated Shas would follow United Torah Judaism into a coalition led by Avigdor Lieberman.
- The potential coalition move is reportedly tied to a conscription arrangement.
- Deri noted Shas lacks a figure like Rabbi Ovadia Yosef to legitimize staying with the right-wing bloc.
- Rabbi Dov Lando's decision could significantly influence the next government's makeup.
Shas Chairman Arie Deri believes his party may be forced to join a "change government" if United Torah Judaism decides to enter such a coalition. Deri told associates that if Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Dov Lando instructs United Torah Judaism to join a government led by Avigdor Lieberman, in exchange for a conscription arrangement, Shas would have to follow suit. "If Rabbi Lando orders United Torah Judaism to join Lieberman's government in return for the conscription law, Shas will not be able to stand aside. We will be forced to join," Deri stated.
Deri also discussed the political and rabbinical difficulties Shas would face remaining in the right-wing bloc under such circumstances. He noted that Shas currently lacks a figure with the authority of the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, who could legitimize remaining with the right-wing bloc against United Torah Judaism's decision. "There is no figure in Shas's leadership like Rabbi Ovadia Yosef who can give legitimacy to our move to remain in the right-wing bloc," he said.
Deri's remarks highlight the potential influence of Rabbi Lando's decision on the formation of the next government and the possibility that United Torah Judaism's choice could compel Shas to join a coalition it might otherwise oppose.
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