Shas officials appear to be preparing themselves for the reality of sitting among the opposition MKs in the 19th Knesset. Walla News quotes party officials as saying “without the chareidim on board, the life of the coalition will be short lived. We have no interest in entering such a coalition, one that will not last and compel another general election. Despite the difficult reality, Shas is preparing for opposition and it should be clear to all that we are not going to join [the coalition] at a second or third opportunity down the line.”

Some feel that Shas might be willing to strike a deal, but the Sephardi chareidi party fears that if it enters into the coalition without Yahadut Hatorah, it will be placed in an embarrassing situation when Yahadut Hatorah attacks the coalition for issues not in line with daas Torah while Shas sits in such an administration.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)