Shas

On Thursday evening, light rail service was partially suspended between Jerusalem’s central bus station and Mount Herzl station due to haredi protests.

Public backlash over proposed legislation reflects a broader struggle over how Israel defines service, sacrifice and equality.

This is Likud’s lowest figure since August 2025, when it received 21 seats in a Maariv poll. However, the coalition bloc maintained its strength from last week at 50 seats.

It proposes that the State of Israel "recognize those who commit themselves to long-term dedication to Torah study as performing significant service to the state and the Jewish people."

Those who see Torah study as essential should acknowledge the unique burden borne by those who leave their lives behind to defend the country, and that yeshiva study is not a comparable sacrifice.

The visit was made to the Neve Tzedek Military Prison, and Deri was accompanied by other lawmakers from his party, including MK Michael Malkieli and Haim Biton.

Progress on the contentious haredi draft legislation has become intertwined with the push for the haredi parties - Shas and United Torah Judaism - to dissolve the Knesset and move up the election.

Haskel told The Jerusalem Post that over the weekend, “phone calls were made to almost all coalition members in order to check their positions and pressure them to vote on the conscription law.”

Ultra-Orthodox parties face mounting political backlash as Israel’s war strains the reserve system and coalition stability.

Arbel thanked Deri and the other members of Shas "for their trust and guidance over the years" and said it was "a great privilege that fell to me to learn from you up close."