Former Shas Leader Eli Yishai Meets Ex-IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Amid Political Moves

Former Shas chairman Eli Yishai recently met with Gadi Eizenkot, leader of the new party Yisrael!, at the party's offices. Sources close to Eizenkot described the meeting as part of a broader effort by Yisrael! to understand Shas's electorate and attract votes from the faction that serves in the military. Yisrael! emphasized that Yishai was not offered a spot on their electoral list. The discussion reportedly included topics such as state education.

Yishai, however, presented a different account, stating he meets with many politicians and that his relationship with Eizenkot dates back some time. He said the meeting aimed to lower tensions ahead of the elections but declined to comment on any plans to join a political framework. Earlier reports indicated that Yishai is exploring an alliance with the new Haredi party "The Haredi Public," which advocates for the genuine enlistment of Haredim who do not study Torah and seeks to represent working Haredim.

Several meetings have taken place between Yishai and members of this new party, with a joint run being seriously considered. This move aims to appeal to disillusioned Shas voters dissatisfied with the party's current leadership, as reflected in recent polls. The developments suggest ongoing realignments within the Haredi political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.