Shas Sparks Online Debate with Election Ad Featuring IDF Soldier Amid Past Draft Exemption Fight

The Shas party released its first election campaign video showcasing a family at a Sabbath table, with one son in an IDF uniform and the other depicted as a yeshiva student. The ad aims to convey a message of unity and shared contribution to the state from different segments of society. However, the choice to prominently feature a soldier sparked sharp criticism online, as many reminded viewers that Shas had previously led efforts to secure draft exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community, even threatening to topple the government if the exemption law was not advanced.

Critics accused Shas of hypocrisy, arguing the party is now using the image of an IDF soldier to appeal to traditional voters and broaden its support base, despite its past opposition to military conscription. Comments on social media highlighted this contradiction, with some questioning whether this represents a genuine shift in Shas's stance or merely an election tactic. Political analysts suggest the campaign is an attempt to regain standing among traditional voters amid declining support linked to the contentious draft issue.

Despite the backlash, some voices praised the campaign's tone and message. Journalist Yossi Elituv complimented the ad on his X account, calling it "an excellent campaign video" that avoids fearmongering and enemies, instead telling a small, human story that reminds viewers of the party's purpose and constituency, emphasizing faith as a guiding principle.