Shas party leader Aryeh Deri was interviewed by Mordechai Lavi on Kol Chai Radio on Rosh Chodesh Sivan. Deri addressed a number of issues including the future of the coalition and constant threats to topple it by the Bayit Yehudi party.

Deri explained “I have always been a chossid of the largest coalition possible”, detailing that such a government reflects the wishes of most of the county. He admitted that operating in the previous coalition of 61 was not easy, stating that regarding the Bayit Yehudi party and its constant ultimatums, “we have done our best to work with Naftali Bennett and Ayelet Shaked”, seemingly expecting the dati leumi party to break from the coalition at some point.

Deri feels “the coalition is not perfect but this is the only coalition and we remember the consequences that resulted when the chareidim were in opposition”.

Deri clearly shares the sentiment of other coalition partners, that Bayit Yehudi leader Naftali Bennett would better serve the interests of voters by working with the current coalition rather than issuing ultimatums on a regular basis. He also welcomes the continued expansion of the coalition, the entry of the Machane Tzioni party.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)