Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef Joins Shas Election Campaign After Reconciliation with Aryeh Deri

The Shas party launched its election campaign on Thursday evening in Holon, marked by a significant reconciliation between party chairman Aryeh Deri and the party's spiritual leader, Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef. This event came after a period of tension and disagreements between the two leaders. The campaign launch was held privately, away from media coverage, due to concerns about internal dissent and electoral challenges.

Earlier that day, Deri and Rabbi Yosef met for a decisive reconciliation meeting, agreeing to strengthen their cooperation. They committed to holding regular Friday meetings for joint study and discussions on party leadership matters. In his speech at the event, Rabbi Yosef addressed recent criticisms, emphasizing unity by stating, "Sometimes there is criticism here and there, but you do not leave the house, this is our home." He urged voters to actively participate in the election, highlighting the critical nature of this campaign for Torah scholars and yeshiva students.

The event attracted party members, local officials, and council members from across Israel. Political analysts noted the complexity of Shas's current situation, pointing out the party's dual challenge: dissatisfaction among the ultra-Orthodox community over unresolved issues like the conscription law and Torah funding, and a sense of alienation among traditional voters who have long supported Shas.

Analyst Yaki Edmacher described Deri's strategy of positioning Rabbi Yosef as the central campaign leader as an attempt to overcome internal crises and unify the party. While the reconciliation was a significant step, the real test will come at the ballot box, where voters often feel their voices are overlooked amid political struggles.