Eli Yishai Gains Momentum for Political Comeback, Surpassing Aryeh Deri in Talks

Eli Yishai, former chairman of the Shas party, is advancing toward a significant political comeback, currently outpacing Aryeh Deri in ongoing negotiations. Discussions between Yishai and Moti Leitner have intensified, with senior rabbis actively involved in the talks. These negotiations focus on potential cooperation and uniting the constituencies that the party aims to represent, leveraging Yishai's leadership experience and public presence.

Recent polls commissioned by the "Haredi Public" indicate strong support for Yishai, particularly among modern Haredi voters, where his approval exceeds 70%. This surge in popularity poses a potential threat to Shas, which could face challenges crossing the electoral threshold in the upcoming 2026 elections. While both sides remain discreet about the outcomes of the discussions, the frequency of meetings and the data presented suggest that the move is being seriously considered and could reshape the political landscape within the Haredi community.

The developments highlight a possible shift in leadership dynamics within the ultra-Orthodox political sphere, with Yishai's rising influence potentially altering Shas's traditional dominance.