Israeli Lawmaker Seeks Probe Into Foreign Funding of Haredi Party

Member of Knesset Yitzhak Pindrus has formally requested the State Comptroller investigate potential illicit funding of the Haredi political party 'Hacharedi Public,' led by Moti Leitner. Pindrus's appeal stems from information suggesting the U.S.-based Maimonides Fund may have provided financial resources and operational support for the party's political activities.

The lawmaker cited concerns that such contributions could violate Israel's Law on Party Funding, which prohibits donations from corporations and restricts indirect financial support. Pindrus specifically pointed to provisions that deem the provision of services, staff, or assets without compensation as a potential prohibited donation equivalent in value.

In his letter to the State Comptroller, Pindrus stated that if the information is accurate, it raises serious concerns about violations of party funding laws and circumvention of financial and reporting restrictions through an external entity. He noted that the Maimonides Fund, based in North America, publicly states it is not religiously or politically affiliated.

Pindrus urged the Comptroller to conduct an urgent examination of the financial and operational ties between the fund and the party, including the scope of resources provided. He requested appropriate action be taken based on the findings.

The request comes approximately two weeks after the 'Hacharedi Public' party experienced a significant electoral setback, securing only about 9,029 votes, far below expectations. Following the election, Leitner acknowledged the failure, attributing it to voters' fear of wasting their ballots and their preference for larger parties. The party also faced internal disputes during the election campaign, with several rabbis publicly denying support.