Noam Party's Election Run Called 'Aggressive Political Maneuver'

Rabbi Yosef Kelner, identified with the Noam party, revealed in a new recording that the party's decision to continue running in the upcoming elections, despite concerns about not passing the electoral threshold, is an "aggressive political maneuver." The recording, published by reporter Amit Segal, suggests the move is intended to signal to other parties that Noam is serious about its political future and will not be underestimated.

Kelner stated that the decision was not based solely on ideology but was a strategic political play to assert the party's presence and ensure it is taken seriously in future elections. "If not for these elections, then for the next elections, don't mess with us," he said, emphasizing that Noam intends to go "all the way."

The comments come amid efforts by political figures to persuade smaller parties, including Noam, to withdraw from the race to prevent vote wastage. Reports indicate that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's office attempted to arrange a meeting with Rabbi Zvi Tau, Noam's spiritual leader, to discuss a potential withdrawal, but sources close to Tau stated that such a move is not being considered.

Additionally, 114 rabbis signed a letter urging voters to support parties that are certain to pass the electoral threshold, without naming specific parties, due to concerns about vote splitting within the right-wing bloc.

This is not the first time Kelner has commented on Noam's political future. Last month, he suggested that Avi Maoz, the party chairman, should withdraw from the race. While expressing ideological support for Noam, Kelner has criticized its political conduct and practical achievements, though he now frames the current run as a move to solidify the party's future standing. Maoz, however, has maintained that Noam intends to run and believes it can pass the electoral threshold.