Shas Leader Aryeh Deri Backs Likud Candidates Supporting Haredi Interests Ahead of Primaries

Aryeh Deri, head of the Shas party, is actively working behind the scenes to influence the upcoming Likud primaries by endorsing certain Knesset members who have supported the Haredi community. According to a report by Avraham Freund, Deri has instructed Haredi activists and influential figures within Likud to assist MKs Boaz Bismuth and Hanoch Milwitsky. Both have earned Deri's backing due to their efforts during the current Knesset term on issues important to the Haredi public.

Boaz Bismuth, who chairs the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, has been a key advocate for advancing the military conscription law, reportedly fighting vigorously to promote it within his committee. Hanoch Milwitsky, chairman of the Finance Committee, has worked on securing significant budget allocations for the Haredi sector, overcoming opposition from legal advisors and the Supreme Court.

Beyond these two committee heads, Deri is also supporting Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz and MK Avichai Boaron. These four lawmakers are receiving coordinated assistance from Haredi activists and influential Likud members aligned with Deri’s agenda. The overarching strategy is clear: Deri aims to back candidates who have demonstrated tangible support for the Haredi community during their tenure, signaling that those who stood with the Haredim will receive their backing in the primaries.