Shas Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef Urges Support for Communications Law Amid Conflict of Interest Allegations

In a recent development, Shas party leader Aryeh Deri has been instructed by Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef to support the communications law promoted by Minister Shlomo Karhi, despite initial opposition due to concerns over Sabbath violations. This shift follows a complex network of economic and media interests linked to the legislation. Sources familiar with the matter have raised concerns about a conflict of interest involving Rabbi Yosef, as Yitzhak Mirilashvili, owner of Channel 14, a media outlet set to benefit significantly from the law, is also the owner of the Haredi radio station Kol Chai. Rabbi Yosef’s weekly Torah lessons are broadcast on Kol Chai, making it a key platform for his influence among the Sephardic community.

Further reports reveal coordinated efforts within a WhatsApp group comprising Kol Chai staff and Channel 14 presenter Yinon Magal to promote Minister Karhi’s legislative initiatives. Minister Karhi, determined to pass the law aimed at weakening certain media powers, is working on substantial amendments to the original bill. Notably, he informed Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf of his intention to cancel the government app component, which would have allowed broadcasts during the Sabbath. This move seeks to remove the primary obstacle preventing Haredi parties from backing the law due to public Sabbath desecration concerns.

However, legal advisors have clarified that removing the app clause carries procedural implications: the legislation cannot proceed as is and must return to the Knesset committee for renewed debate on the bill’s wording. Consequently, the communications law may undergo significant changes, focusing on other controversial provisions, including those perceived to strengthen Channel 14, while eliminating the government app element to facilitate its passage in the Knesset plenum.