Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef Rules Out Netanyahu's Return to Religious Observance, Suggests Gadi Eizenkot Might

Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, a leading figure in the Shas party, stated in his weekly Saturday lesson that there is no chance that Benjamin Netanyahu will return to religious observance. He contrasted this with Gadi Eizenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, suggesting that Eizenkot might indeed return to religious practice.

Rabbi Yosef's remarks came in response to Eizenkot's recent interview with Kikar HaShabbat, where the former IDF Chief of Staff highlighted that many Shas voters serve in the military. Eizenkot described Shas as an integrated party that serves the state and is expected to bring positive change to life in Israel. He also noted that his mother voted for Shas for 30 years.

The exchange reflects ongoing political and social dynamics between religious parties and military service in Israel, as well as efforts by political leaders like Eizenkot to appeal to the Haredi community. Rabbi Yosef's comments underscore skepticism about Netanyahu's religious sincerity, while leaving open the possibility for Eizenkot's spiritual return.