Yoeli Baram Analyzes Netanyahu's Strained Relations with Ultra-Orthodox Parties Amid Political Shifts

Yoeli Baram, a journalist specializing in ultra-Orthodox affairs at Channel 13 News, provided an analysis of the current political landscape following recent developments involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the ultra-Orthodox parties. Baram highlighted that despite Netanyahu's perceived mistreatment of the ultra-Orthodox, they continue to support him. He noted that while the ultra-Orthodox factions did not secure legislative victories such as the exemption from military service, they received unprecedented financial allocations, particularly for their educational networks.

Baram also discussed the irony surrounding the Basic Law on Torah Study, where the ultra-Orthodox have entrusted the Israeli judiciary with defining what constitutes Torah study and who qualifies as a Torah student, despite their usual critical stance toward the courts. Regarding the broader political scene, Baram pointed out that former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot is positioning himself as a leader capable of forming a government. Eizenkot has engaged with ultra-Orthodox leaders like Moshe Gafni and praised Aryeh Deri, aiming to attract influential figures rather than directly courting Shas voters.

When asked about the ultra-Orthodox parties' potential to determine the outcome of upcoming elections, Baram expressed skepticism. He suggested that while they may not be kingmakers, they are preparing for a post-Netanyahu era and might need to embrace a minority status to regain relevance. Instead, Baram identified a new right-wing party emerging as the likely decisive force in future elections.

This analysis was presented on July 9, 2026, following the opening of the Knesset's winter session, with visual references to key political figures including Moshe Gafni, Yitzhak Goldknopf, Gadi Eizenkot, and Naftali Bennett.