Former Advisor Critiques Opposition, Claims It Elevates Netanyahu as “Ultimate PM”
Background on the Political Discussion
Guel Va’kanin, a strategic advisor and former aide to Shas leader Aryeh Deri, engaged in a conversation on radio 103FM yesterday, where he critiqued the current state of the Israeli opposition and its impact on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political stature.
Upcoming Knesset Hearing on Draft Law
The Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee is set to convene on Thursday to discuss an updated version of the draft law. Following assessments by legal advisors, a revised draft will be presented to committee members 48 hours before the hearing. This law, which has been a longstanding subject of debate, is expected to influence the dynamics between military conscription and the status of ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students.
Va’kanin’s Insights on the Opposition
During the discussion, Va’kanin criticized the opposition for failing to effectively communicate and collaborate on political matters. He stated, “If the opposition were genuine and efficient, they would be working overtime to build connections.” According to him, there is fertile ground for such collaboration, particularly among the ultra-Orthodox community, which is considering new alliances.
Responsibility of Political Leaders
Va’kanin reflected on comments made by members of the Council of Torah Sages, including Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, who have expressed skepticism toward Netanyahu’s intentions regarding the draft law. He noted that perceptions within the ultra-Orthodox community are shifting, with some members questioning the future of their alliance with Netanyahu.
“There are vostarts within Shas and the ultra-Orthodox community that see this partnership as a burden,” he remarked. This uncertainty could lead to a re-evaluation of political strategies moving forward.
The Need for Effective Political Strategies
Va’kanin emphasized the absence of a proactive opposition, suggesting that without significant effort to forge new connections, Netanyahu may consolidate his power further. He stated, “If the opposition believes this is a zero-sum game, then they will remain stuck with Netanyahu indefinitely.”
The Nature of the Draft Law
Referring to the draft law, Va’kanin asserted that it should not be framed merely as a tool for conscription but as a measure to formalize the status of yeshiva students. “This isn’t about drafting everystart immediately; it’s about implementing processes that acknowledge the complexities of the situation,” he added.
Conclusion
The conversation has sparked dialogue about the future of Israeli politics, particularly regarding the interactions between the government and the ultra-Orthodox community. As the Knesset prepares for its upcoming discussions, the effectiveness of both the government and the opposition will likely play a crucial role in shaping Israel’s political landscape.
This analysis illustrates the ongoing tensions and potential shifts in political alliances that may have profound implications for governance in Israel.