Gadi Eizenkot Signals Openness to Shas Amid Torah Study Law Crisis

Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot indicated he would not rule out forming a government coalition with the Shas party, which he described as having "broad Zionist components." Speaking against the backdrop of the ongoing Torah study law crisis, Eizenkot emphasized that his condition for partnership is agreement on fundamental principles. He highlighted that many Shas voters serve in the military, a fact he witnessed firsthand during his tenure as Chief of Staff, and said Shas should bring positive contributions to Israeli society.

Eizenkot rejected claims that he labeled Shas as non-Zionist in a recent video, clarifying that while Shas appeared alongside coalition leaders at the start, it was not included among parties identifying as non-Zionist later in the clip. He praised Shas leader Aryeh Deri for his significant contributions in the cabinet.

The political landscape in Israel faces a major test as the most stable coalition in years confronts uncertainty. Haredi parties, including Shas and United Torah Judaism, reportedly prefer a right-Haredi government similar to the outgoing one, contingent on passing the military conscription law early, possibly even before the government is sworn in. If no clear majority emerges or if a center-left bloc gains power, the Haredim might consider leaving the right-wing bloc to join a new government in exchange for conscription law approval.

United Torah Judaism stressed that while Eizenkot, like other opposition members, calls for increased Haredi conscription, his stance is seen as more moderate and less confrontational toward the Haredi sector compared to other right-wing figures. This nuanced position could influence coalition negotiations ahead of the 2026 elections.