Shas Criticizes New Right-Wing Parties for Anti-Haredi Stance and Political Shift

The Shas party's official publication, 'HaDerech,' published a sharp editorial on Thursday attacking new right-wing political factions emerging in Israel. The article targets figures such as Yoaz Hendel, Hili Tropper, Gilad Erdan, Ayelet Shaked, and Yuli Edelstein, accusing them of shifting towards the political center solely to distance themselves from the Haredi bloc. The editorial highlights these politicians' declarations to form a "Zionist government without Haredim and Arabs," and their endorsement of Yair Golan as a preferred partner, labeling him ironically as a "worthy and ethical partner" for the so-called 'ethical right.'

The piece paints a bleak picture of the current political landscape, stating that the Haredi community has become a new consensus target, with nearly all party leaders united only in their opposition to Haredi participation in government. It claims that hatred toward the Haredi public has become the most sought-after political commodity.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is singled out for particularly harsh criticism, described as "losing his mind over hatred of Haredim." The editorial accuses Bennett of turning his platform into a campaign of incitement against Torah scholars. It warns Bennett that building a political future on such incitement may bring fleeting fame but ultimately fails, as hatred does not create a sustainable path.

This editorial reflects ongoing tensions within Israeli politics, where new right-wing parties are redefining alliances and stances regarding the Haredi sector. Shas's response underscores its concern over being politically isolated and vilified by emerging factions that seek to exclude them from government coalitions.