Political Pressure May Explain Shas Leader Aryeh Deri's Harsh Criticism of IDF Chief Aviv Kochavi

Michael Shemesh, political correspondent for Channel 13 News, suggested in a Radio Kol Barama interview on Thursday that recent political pressure might explain Shas chairman Aryeh Deri's severe remarks against IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi. Shemesh noted that a recent poll showing Shas with only seven Knesset seats could have increased internal party stress. He also highlighted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu avoided voting on the Detention Law due to a letter from Kochavi, indicating Netanyahu's reluctance to confront the military chief.

Shemesh acknowledged that some of the criticism directed at Kochavi is justified, as the Chief of Staff raised concerns not previously voiced in the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. However, he implied that the harsh tone from Deri might stem from political calculations rather than purely substantive issues.

In a separate interview with Yishai Cohen on Kikar HaShabbat, Aryeh Deri accused Kochavi of overstepping his role during the election period by allegedly supporting the left-wing bloc, calling it a dangerous precedent that harmed the army. Deri emphasized his personal respect for Kochavi but insisted that the military chief had "lost it" and should not engage in politics.

Adding weight to Deri's stance, a senior strategic advisor recently joined Shas, signaling potential consolidation of the party's position on this issue.