Ultra-Orthodox Party Won't Be Anyone's 'Asset,' MK Says
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
United Torah Judaism MK Yitzhak Goldknopf stated his party will follow rabbinical guidance and has not yet chosen a bloc. He criticized coalition partners for failing to meet ultra-Orthodox needs and accused the Religious Zionism party of harming their community. Goldknopf also called for equal rights and recognition of alternative civilian service for the ultra-Orthodox.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- MK Yitzhak Goldknopf says United Torah Judaism will follow rabbinical guidance on bloc endorsement.
- Goldknopf stated coalition partners failed to meet ultra-Orthodox community needs.
- He accused the Religious Zionism party of dealing the ultra-Orthodox community a "blow."
- Goldknopf demanded equal rights for the ultra-Orthodox citizens of Israel.
- He called for recognition of alternative civilian service for ultra-Orthodox men.
Yitzhak Goldknopf, a Member of Knesset for the United Torah Judaism party, stated that his party has not yet endorsed any political bloc and will follow the guidance of its senior rabbis. Speaking at the Channel 7 booth at the Knesset, Goldknopf asserted that coalition partners have failed to adequately address the needs of the ultra-Orthodox public.
He rejected the notion that United Torah Judaism would automatically align with the Netanyahu bloc due to past partnerships, declaring, "We are not anyone's asset." Goldknopf explained that while his party contributed its seven mandates to its partners, the needs of the ultra-Orthodox community remain unmet after four years. He highlighted his work in the Ministry of Housing, stating he served all segments of the public, including soldiers and the ultra-Orthodox.
Goldknopf emphasized his demand for equal rights for the ultra-Orthodox, stating, "We are also citizens of the State of Israel. We want to live here as equal rights holders." Regarding potential alliances, he mentioned that discussions with parties like Yair Golan's have not yet begun and demands have not been presented.
He expressed strong criticism towards the Religious Zionism party, stating they "dealt us a blow." Goldknopf attributed this to funds he claims were taken from the ultra-Orthodox community and to positions taken by individuals within Religious Zionism, whom he did not name. He also referenced his contributions to settlement in the Samaria region during his tenure as Housing Minister.
Addressing the issue of conscription, Goldknopf advocated for recognition of alternative civilian service for ultra-Orthodox individuals in rescue organizations and hospitals. He noted that many ultra-Orthodox men already serve in the IDF, including on the front lines, and that commitments made to them have also not been fulfilled.
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