Shas party officials were contemplating canceling the chol hamoed Pesach event in the Jerusalem Arena Stadium under the banner “קבלת פני רבו” which is being organized by the party-affiliated El HaMayan educational network. The party’s Moetzas Gedolei Hatorah is expected to take part in the yomtov event.

It appears party leader Aryeh Deri fears that due to the police investigation against him, participants may try to turn it into a Deri support rally, which he does not wish to see. Details surrounding the police investigation are blocked by a court gag order. Deri has announced he will cooperate with any and all agencies probing him and report to respond to questions at any time and place.

Other senior party officials feel the event should take place as scheduled to signal business as usual.

On Monday afternoon, Hagaon HaRav Shalom Cohen decided to cancel the event.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)