Netanyahu Seeks Post-Election Loyalty from Ultra-Orthodox Parties Amid Legislative Talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has begun preparing for the possibility of upcoming elections by requesting commitments from ultra-Orthodox party leaders to remain part of his right-wing bloc after the vote. About two weeks ago, Netanyahu met with Aryeh Deri, leader of Shas, and Moshe Gafni, head of Degel HaTorah, where the parties demanded advancement of key legislation important to them, including the Basic Law on Torah Study and the Detention Law. During this meeting, a deal was reportedly formed to push several bills before the Knesset dissolves.

Netanyahu sought assurances that passing these laws would secure continued support from the ultra-Orthodox factions, even considering formalizing such a commitment. Deri indicated that approval of these laws was a "red line" for cooperation, suggesting that if passed, collaboration could continue. Gafni, however, expressed a more cautious stance, citing guidance from Rabbi Dov Lando that "there is currently no bloc," and that even passing the laws would not guarantee automatic support for Netanyahu post-election.

Additionally, Netanyahu engaged with Agudat Yisrael representatives to gauge their future backing, receiving a response that they would discuss support only after the legislation is passed. This political maneuvering occurs amid tensions between the coalition and ultra-Orthodox parties, following Shas and Degel HaTorah's announcement that they would not support the current version of the Communications Law, criticizing it for lacking amendments to protect religious values. Meanwhile, the Knesset approved the first reading of the election law for the 26th Knesset.