Netanyahu Seeks Support as Key Allies Weigh Options

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is actively seeking to secure support for his premiership, personally engaging with representatives of the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party to gauge their stance ahead of consultations with the president. Preliminary assessments suggest UTJ may opt to abstain from endorsing any candidate, including Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot, preferring to remain uncommitted for the time being. The Likud party expects UTJ to eventually declare its political alignment.

Netanyahu has held discussions with Yaakov Asher, the head of UTJ, and has also contacted MK Meir Porush and future MK Eljakim Stark, both considered part of the party's right wing. These efforts aim to understand the sentiments within the party, which secured seven seats in the Knesset. A Likud spokesperson emphasized that Netanyahu is discussing the recommendation for prime minister exclusively with Asher.

In parallel, Netanyahu attempted to connect with Yitzhak Goldknopf, head of Agudat Yisrael, and Arie Deri, leader of Shas. Deri, meanwhile, has sought permission from the Council of Torah Sages to resign from his position. Agudat Yisrael is leaning towards supporting Gadi Eisenkot, possibly through abstention rather than a direct endorsement. This potential shift reflects sentiments within the Gur Hasidic movement, which nominated Goldknopf.

Goldknopf's representatives were among the first to distance themselves from the government, with Goldknopf himself resigning as Minister of Construction prior to other ultra-Orthodox lawmakers leaving their posts. He has since moved into full opposition. Goldknopf reportedly expressed disappointment with Netanyahu's actions and believes a change in leadership could facilitate legislation exempting ultra-Orthodox men from military service.

Earlier reports indicated that Itamar Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party intends to recommend Netanyahu to the president for the formation of a new government.