It came as a shock to the political community, but perhaps no one is more troubled by the resignation of Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman than the chareidi parties, which feel a sense of betrayal.

The heads of the chareidi factions in Knesset, Shas’ Aryeh Deri, Degel Hatorah’s Moshe Gafne and Agudas Yisrael’s Yaakov Litzman are of the opinion that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is not about to appoint another defense minister and he more likely to announce a date for early elections rather than permit the current coalition to complete its term, which expires in November 2019.

Kikar Shabbos News is reporting that Mr. Netanyahu told the three on Wednesday evening that he will do his utmost to maintain the current coalition, but they nevertheless believe early elections will be the next challenge to face.

Kikar quotes an unnamed senior Degel Hatorah official saying, “We are not in the best position possible for elections, which come as a surprise to all. It is no secret that we are in the midst of an internal crisis and we overcome it all and prepare for elections. The tzibur will understand we are dealing with an existential battle for the Torah world and all other disagreements must be placed aside. It won’t be easy.”

Shas leader Minister Aryeh Deri on the other hand exhibits self-confidence, insisting the party is doing well and ready for elections. Unlike Degel Hatorah, he feels early elections will be good for Shas.

Nothing is being heard at present from Agudas Yisrael, which many blame for the current situation, since Deputy Minister Litzman was a key player in sabotaging efforts by Degel and Shas to advance and pass a modified draft bill when the opportunity presented itself.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)