Michael Shmuel Criticizes Shas Party Amid Leadership Dispute Ahead of Elections

Two months before the elections, the Shas party faces a serious internal crisis as it struggles to launch its campaign. The conflict between party chairman Aryeh Deri and Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef has intensified, centering on Yosef's desire to serve as president of the Council of Torah Sages, a move opposed by Deri. This morning, Deri visited Rabbi Yosef's home in an attempt to resolve the prolonged tension within the Sephardic leadership.

Political reporter Michael Shmuel condemned the ongoing turmoil, stating that even multiple meetings between Deri and Yosef cannot conceal the party's disgrace. Despite the conflict, Shas remains a legitimate party, according to a protest activist quoted in the media. Recently, Deri appointed mediators, including former minister Ariel Atias and his brother Momo Deri, to negotiate between the sides. They approached Rabbi Yosef, while Deri engaged veteran council member Rabbi Maya to seek a compromise.

The proposed agreement would have Shas leaders sign a document affirming the party follows the path of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, with Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef as his successor, and granting Yosef leadership over major party events. However, Rabbi Yosef finds this insufficient, demanding full subordination of the party to the Council of Torah Sages and a clearer statement that Shas itself follows his leadership. Efforts to reach a resolution continue, with party officials hopeful a formula will be found to bridge the divide between Deri and Yosef.