Bennett Urges Drastic Change Against Ultra-Orthodox Sector Amid Party Poll Decline

Naftali Bennett, leader of his eponymous party, delivered a sharp critique of the ultra-Orthodox community during a recent activists' conference, calling for a fundamental policy shift. Speaking days before the Jewish fast of Tisha B'Av, Bennett stated, "The era of compromises is over; no exemptions, no budgets. If we do not dismantle the anti-Zionist ultra-Orthodox state, we will lose the Zionist state." He emphasized that his remarks stemmed from love for his fellow citizens, not hatred.

The speech sparked significant controversy due to its timing and tone, drawing strong reactions across the political spectrum. Bennett's comments come amid a steady decline in his party's polling numbers, raising questions about whether the rhetoric is a strategic move to sharpen his appeal to voters or signals a firmer ideological stance ahead of upcoming elections.

A recent News 13 poll showed Bennett's party dropping to a new low of 14 seats in the Knesset. Meanwhile, the Likud party lost one seat, and the anti-Netanyahu bloc also decreased by one seat to 60, despite gains by Arab parties. Political analysts are closely watching how Bennett's hardline approach toward the ultra-Orthodox sector will influence his party's fortunes and the broader electoral landscape.