New Haredi Parties Challenge Established Religious Bloc Ahead of 2026 Elections

The Haredi political landscape in Israel is undergoing significant change as three new parties emerge to challenge the long-standing dominance of Shas and United Torah Judaism ahead of the 2026 elections. These new parties appeal to a growing segment of disillusioned Haredi voters seeking alternatives to the traditional leadership, which has controlled key positions for decades without primaries or real turnover. "The public chooses its representatives, no appointments or closed circles," says the "Kahal Party," one of the new initiatives advocating for democratic primaries.

The rise of these parties stems from deep frustration within the Haredi community after four years of a right-wing government that failed to fulfill major coalition promises, including budget allocations, education projects, and exemption from military service. Many in the community feel betrayed, with some relatives facing sanctions or arrest orders. This dissatisfaction threatens to lower voter turnout, breaking the usual pattern of disciplined voting based on rabbinic guidance.

The three new parties share a more open stance, supporting military service for those not engaged in Torah study and encouraging integration into the workforce. They target working Haredim and those who support state-religious education rather than the established party-affiliated schools. The parties include "Achi," led by Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Abergel, who openly discusses military service but faces sexual harassment allegations limiting his broader appeal; "Kahal," headed by Shalom Alvin, which promotes democratic primaries; and "The Haredi Public," led by Moti Leitner, focusing on quality-of-life issues in Haredi neighborhoods.

Meanwhile, former Shas leader Eli Yishai is considering a political comeback, potentially joining "The Haredi Public." Yishai represents an older establishment figure but holds different views on military service than current Shas leader Aryeh Deri. Internal polls show the new parties currently hold about 2.5 Knesset seats, below the electoral threshold, but a Yishai alliance could expand their support.

Aryeh Deri faces a major crisis as Shas weakens amid tensions between traditional voters and Haredi yeshiva students, especially over the military service issue. Deri's recent confrontations with the IDF Chief of Staff and attempts to pass legislation addressing draft evaders have deepened divisions and eroded support. United Torah Judaism also struggles with declining motivation and a recent court ruling limiting their ability to monitor voter turnout, which has been crucial for mobilizing their base.

The outcome of the 2026 elections could reshape the Haredi political scene. If Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secures 61 seats with Haredi support, he may fulfill promises like the military exemption law. However, if not, new alliances and voices within the Haredi community, including those open to cooperation with figures like Gadi Eisenkot, may gain influence. A large segment of working and integrated Haredim feels unrepresented and may finally see their voice translated into Knesset seats in the upcoming elections.