After the Ultimatum to Deri, Gafni and Goldknopf: Haredim Consider Dramatic Step

After the ultimatum to Shas and United Torah Judaism expired, the 'Haredi Public' faction led by Moti Leitner will for the first time discuss running independently for the Knesset. Meanwhile, advanced talks are underway with right-wing parties and former minister Eli Yishai. The faction emphasizes that the goal is not division but partnership and true representation, and has set a final deadline for a response by this coming Friday.

The 'Haredi Public' faction, led by Moti Leitner, will for the first time discuss running independently in the next Knesset elections, after the ultimatum it set for Shas and United Torah Judaism expired. Maariv has learned that advanced talks are underway with right-wing parties and former minister Eli Yishai. According to sources in the faction, attempts were made to reach a dialogue and a framework that would ensure proper representation for Haredim, but since no satisfactory response was received, it was decided to examine ways to ensure that the voice does not remain without a political address. The faction emphasizes that the goal is not division but partnership, unity, and true representation, and that tens of thousands of Haredim are seeking a political home. A final deadline was set in the letter: if no response is received by this coming Friday, the faction will convene with community representatives, rabbis, and the faction leadership for consultation with the Torah sages. Leitner, 33, is the deputy mayor of Beit Shemesh and heads the 'Derech' faction in the city.