Divisions Emerge in Camp Over Haredi Party Inclusion

Some within the camp prioritize allying with the Haredim over relying on the United Arab List, while Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has expressed willingness to compromise, even on the contentious conscription law.

A Knesset member from the "Change Camp," speaking anonymously to Israel Hayom, stated that while the United Arab List could be a "nice addition," the priority is to bring in the Haredi parties, suggesting Yisrael Beiteinu would also support this approach. This reflects internal debates about government formation priorities, with unresolved issues concerning the conditions for Haredi party inclusion and the role of Arab parties.

The core disagreements revolve around the political price for securing Haredi support, particularly concessions on the conscription law, a major hurdle for forming a coalition opposed to Prime Minister Netanyahu and including the Haredi parties Shas and United Torah Judaism. Lieberman indicated flexibility, stating that while the conscription issue is painful, national interest must come first, and that seeking everything might result in gaining nothing.

These principles include recognizing Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, accepting the values of the Declaration of Independence, ensuring universal service (military, national, or civil), and designating Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Yair Golan, head of the Democratic Union party, supports cooperation with Haredi parties but links it to their conscription and increased participation in the workforce. He emphasized mutual responsibility and the need for the middle class to no longer bear the sole economic and security burdens. Golan stated that while they desire a government of change, they will not offer a "blank check."

Further disagreements within the camp concern the next Knesset speaker, with Lieberman endorsing Yair Lapid, while Naftali Bennett has not declared a position.