Reports of a deal between Bayit Yehudi and Yisrael Beitenu surrounding the race for chief rabbi have resulted in statements of denial from the dati leumi party. Maariv reports that Bayit Yehudi was entering into agreement with Yisrael Beitenu, a deal that included support for David Levy’s candidacy for president are being denied.

Bayit Yehudi officials released a statement to the media that they are not certain exactly how and where the rumor of such a deal started, but it is not based in fact, stating there is no such agreement in the works.

The reported deal would have resulted in Yisrael Beitenu supporting Bayit Yehudi’s candidate for the chief rabbinate post and in return, the dati leumi party would support David Levy’s candidacy for president in next year’s election.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)