Netanyahu Plans Public Distance From Ultra-Orthodox Parties Ahead of Elections

Senior Likud officials revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is preparing a new political strategy for the upcoming elections, which involves publicly distancing himself from the ultra-Orthodox parties that are his coalition partners. According to reports from Kan 11 on Monday evening, Netanyahu intends to deepen this separation during the campaign period to appeal to a broader electorate.

A senior Likud source explained that as the elections approach, Netanyahu will emphasize this differentiation but must carefully balance his approach to avoid directly attacking the ultra-Orthodox parties and thereby weakening the right-wing bloc. Another party insider described the situation as walking a tightrope to maintain coalition stability.

This development comes amid heightened tensions following Netanyahu's recent rejection of harsh remarks made by Rabbi Dov Lando, head of a yeshiva, against Religious Zionist fighters. Netanyahu's response sparked strong reactions within the ultra-Orthodox community, with the Degel HaTorah party issuing a sharp warning to "be cautious with the fire of Torah sages." The timing of Netanyahu's new campaign approach reflects the delicate political dynamics between Likud and its ultra-Orthodox partners ahead of the elections.