Ultra-Orthodox Parties Weigh Unity Government Amid Political Stalemate

Ultra-Orthodox parties are reportedly exploring the possibility of forming a unity government, a move that could pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister Gadi Eisenkot to advance such a coalition. This potential government, according to sources within the ultra-Orthodox community, could address critical issues like military conscription and budget allocations, while also averting further elections.

These parties are wary of the consequences of repeat elections, which could prolong the uncertainty regarding the status of yeshiva students, budget solutions, and the ongoing enforcement crisis involving draft dodgers. Even the prospect of increasing their Knesset representation in a future election does not resolve these immediate concerns.

Senior figures in the right-wing bloc claim that the IDF has recently reduced arrests of ultra-Orthodox draft dodgers to avoid hindering Eisenkot's government formation efforts. "Today the IDF lowered the profile of draft dodger arrests and is doing it less, so as not to sabotage Eisenkot's efforts to establish a government," these sources stated.

Within the United Torah Judaism party, there is apprehension that even if initial agreements are reached, secular and liberal partners might later pursue policies conflicting with ultra-Orthodox demands. A significant concern is joining a government without the Shas party, which would leave United Torah Judaism as the sole ultra-Orthodox partner. In such a scenario, their ability to enforce agreements on issues like the conscription law or religious legislation would be limited, highlighting the importance of Shas's inclusion to counter such moves.

Meanwhile, the delay in the ultra-Orthodox parties' decision benefits Netanyahu, as their non-commitment to Eisenkot complicates his government formation. However, the time Netanyahu gains does not resolve his own challenge of assembling a majority for an alternative government.