Shas Party Condemns Supreme Court President's Remarks on Ultra-Orthodox Phone Use as Arrogant and Disconnected

The Shas party responded sharply on Wednesday to comments made by Supreme Court President Isaac Amit, who mocked the ultra-Orthodox community by claiming many use two phones: one kosher phone for appearances and another regular phone. Shas issued a brief WhatsApp statement condemning Amit's remarks as "arrogant and disconnected" from a large community that chooses to raise its children in a protected and pure environment. The party expressed pride in leading legislation to preserve kosher standards and vowed to continue defending the community's right to live according to its faith.

The comments came during a High Court hearing involving Amit and other justices on a petition by Lobby 99 and the "Hatzlacha" organization against the Minister of Communications and the Second Authority Council. The petition challenges the minister's decision to expand regional radio stations' broadcast areas nationwide without a tender. During the hearing, Amit sarcastically noted that many ultra-Orthodox individuals carry a kosher phone but also have a second phone "to make calls," suggesting the kosher phone is merely for show.

This exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the Supreme Court leadership and the ultra-Orthodox community regarding cultural practices and regulatory decisions affecting them. Shas's response underscores its commitment to protecting religious norms and opposing what it sees as judicial arrogance toward its constituency.