Dan Illouz Resigns From Knesset, Shabtai Katesh Set To Become First Ultra-Orthodox Likud MK

Dan Illouz, a Knesset member from the Likud party, submitted his resignation to Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana after announcing his move to the Israel Beiteinu party ahead of upcoming elections. Illouz's resignation paves the way for Shabtai Katesh, a Chabad Hasidic lawyer and rabbinically ordained figure from Lod, to enter the Knesset as the first ultra-Orthodox member representing Likud.

Katesh has a diverse background including serving as secretary of the settlement Neria, a member of Lod's city council where he managed tenders, and participation in election committees. Within Likud, he holds positions in the party's central committee, branch council, and the Geurim Forum secretariat. He holds a law degree, is a practicing attorney, and is certified by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.

In a previous interview, Katesh outlined his priorities if elected: strengthening governance and the separation of powers in Israel, reinforcing Jewish identity domestically and globally, especially among youth, and securing official recognition for institutions like Chabad centers worldwide. He also emphasized enhancing personal security and economic welfare. Katesh chose Likud because he views it as a unifying democratic party representing all streams in Israel without interference from rabbis or local power brokers, describing it as a ruling party leading the majority rather than a minority.