Aryeh Deri Endorses Recommended Candidates in Likud Primaries to Support Haredi Interests

Aryeh Deri, chairman of the Shas party, has actively entered the Likud primaries by instructing Haredi operatives to support select candidates in the ruling party's internal elections. According to reports, Deri's top endorsements include MK Boaz Bismuth, chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and MK Hanoch Milwitsky, chairman of the Finance Committee. Both are highly regarded within the Haredi community for their work during the current Knesset term on issues affecting Haredim. Milwitsky focused on budgetary and economic matters relevant to the Haredi sector, often engaging with legal advisors and the Supreme Court, while Bismuth played a central role in debates and efforts surrounding the military draft law and the status of yeshiva students.

Additionally, Deri's list of recommended candidates includes Coalition Chairman MK Ofir Katz and MK Avichai Boaron, with instructions given to Haredi activists to support them as well. This strategy reflects a clear principle: Likud members who have aided the Haredi community on key issues during the term are now expected to receive reciprocal backing from Haredi voters within Likud.

The Likud primaries are scheduled for Monday, August 17, when party members will select the Likud list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Deri's involvement highlights the ongoing political cooperation and influence between Shas and certain Likud factions to advance Haredi interests within the ruling coalition.