Shas MP Azoulai Dismisses Polls, Emphasizes Groundwork and Rejects Left-Wing Alliance

Shas Member of Knesset Yinon Azoulai addressed recent polls predicting his party would win only seven to eight seats, dismissing their significance. Speaking on Kol Chai radio on Sunday, Azoulai recalled that polls before the last election also underestimated Shas, which ultimately secured 11 seats. He stressed that the party's approach is to ignore polls and work diligently on the ground as if every vote counts.

Azoulai also discussed the contentious issue of ultra-Orthodox conscription, urging a broader perspective beyond focusing solely on the Haredi sector. Citing recent data presented in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, he noted that many reservists remain uncalled for service, suggesting structural manpower issues in the Israel Defense Forces rather than a raw shortage of soldiers. He argued that the exclusive focus on the Haredi community is politically motivated rather than professional.

Regarding potential political cooperation, Azoulai firmly rejected any alliance with the left-wing bloc, accusing it of aiming to alter the Jewish character of the state. He also expressed public support for right-wing Knesset members who have defended the interests of Torah scholars, praising Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Chairman Boaz Bismuth for his strong stance in support of yeshiva students. Azoulai additionally commended MK Avichai Boaron and encouraged backing those who maintain the stability of the right-wing government and the status of the yeshiva community.