MK Ben-Ari Dismisses Left-Wing Coalition Hopes, Cites Shas Leader's Interests

Knesset Member Michael Ben-Ari on Tuesday downplayed the possibility of a left-wing government coalition that would include ultra-Orthodox parties, stating that Shas leader Derri would not agree to such a scenario. Ben-Ari argued that forming such a government would be "suicidal" for Shas, as Derri "finished half of Shas in the last election" and would not risk dissolving the party by joining a coalition with Liberman and Golan.

Ben-Ari further asserted that Liberman is "delusional" for believing he can "eliminate Haniyeh," suggesting Liberman is out of touch with political realities. The comments come after Liberman issued a dramatic statement earlier that day, emphasizing the need to "prevent further elections." Liberman also stated that the current political climate allows for "maneuvering" to establish a "functioning and stable government quickly without Ra'am and the Joint List."

The article also briefly mentions Attorney General Mandelblit's comment about his meeting with Shlomo Filber, where Mandelblit said, "Now I remember," and notes Chani Edri. These references appear to be unrelated to the main discussion about coalition possibilities.