Derech Eretz Party Seeks Ultra-Orthodox Support for Knesset Speaker Vote

The Derech Eretz party, led by Gadi Eisenkot, is actively seeking the support of ultra-Orthodox factions in an initiative to remove the current Knesset Speaker. Representatives from the party have approached the Shas and United Torah Judaism parties with a proposal to join the effort to oust the Speaker. Roy Folkman, faction chairman of Derech Eretz, sent letters to the leaders of the Haredi parties, stating that signatures are being collected for an official demand for a vote to replace the Speaker and urging their support.

Previously, six parties within the anti-Netanyahu bloc had already called for a vote on the Speaker's dismissal. They are expected to present their own candidate for the position soon. The current Speaker, who represents the Likud party, has stated he will not hold the vote during the opening of the new parliament but indicated it could occur next week if a majority of lawmakers formally request it.

This outreach to the ultra-Orthodox parties may signal broader political ambitions for Eisenkot, potentially aiming to establish cooperation for forming a new government. Such support might not require direct coalition entry, with options like external backing or abstention during confidence votes being considered. Media reports suggest United Torah Judaism is already discussing the possibility of assisting in the creation of a minority government led by Eisenkot.

This scenario could gain traction due to dissatisfaction among ultra-Orthodox parties with Benjamin Netanyahu, who has not yet secured exemptions from military service for yeshiva students. However, the prospects for a full political alliance remain uncertain. Eisenkot has previously stated his willingness to collaborate with any party that accepts his four core governing principles, one of which mandates universal military or civilian national service. This specific principle poses a significant obstacle to reaching agreements with Haredi factions, who strongly oppose mandatory conscription for students of religious institutions.