New Right-Wing Star David Petel Urges Haredi Voters to Support Likud in Upcoming Elections

David Petel, a prominent lawyer recently appointed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to a reserved spot on the Likud party list for the upcoming Knesset elections, has issued a direct message to the Haredi community amid rising tensions over military conscription laws. In an exclusive interview with Kikar HaShabbat, Petel emphasized the critical importance of the Haredi vote, stating that their ballot is their sole power in Israel and warning that without it, their rights will be trampled.

Petel, known for representing the government in complex Supreme Court cases and for his outspoken criticism of the court, addressed recent High Court rulings that ordered the government to revoke extensive economic benefits for the Haredi sector, including subsidies for daycare, transportation, and housing projects. He accused left-wing factions of attempting to strip Haredim of their voting rights and stressed that the right-wing camp remains the only political force respecting Haredi political rights.

Acknowledging internal disagreements within the right-wing bloc, Petel urged the Haredi public to maintain their alliance with the right, warning that breaking this bond would be self-destructive and jeopardize their future. He concluded with a stark warning that without political influence through their representatives, the Haredi world will have no future in Israel. Petel’s statements come amid a volatile political climate and shifting electoral polls ahead of the 26th Knesset elections.

Born in Hungary during the late communist era and immigrating to Israel as a toddler, the 39-year-old Petel holds degrees in law and finance from Bar-Ilan University, where he is also a doctoral candidate. His inclusion on the Likud list is part of Netanyahu’s broader efforts to refresh the party’s roster, following the approval of a new primary system granting Netanyahu eight reserved spots, a move that has sparked internal party debates.