Tensions between United Torah Judaism and Shas have spilled into the open, after Degel HaTorah chairman MK Moshe Gafni sharply criticized Shas leader MK Aryeh Deri for unilaterally reclaiming the chairmanship of the Knesset Health Committee.

Speaking during a United Torah Judaism faction meeting on Monday, Gafni accused Deri of breaking a coordinated agreement among the chareidi parties. According to Gafni, the factions had reached a clear understanding to withdraw together from coalition roles and to maintain a unified legislative boycott, including joint decisions on “what goes up and what does not.”

Gafni said the purpose of the agreement was to preserve a united front in negotiations with the government on issues central to the chareidi public, foremost among them the draft law.

However, he charged that Deri deviated from that consensus. “Suddenly he decides unilaterally to return to the chairmanship of the Health Committee. He decides on his own,” Gafni told fellow faction members.

Gafni further revealed that in a prior meeting with the prime minister, Deri had emphasized to him, “I do what Gafni says.” In light of that statement, Gafni asked pointedly: “Suddenly when it comes to jobs he decides on his own. Now it no longer matters what Gafni says?”

Within chareidi political circles, Shas’s move is being interpreted as an effort to retain key parliamentary positions during a period of political strain and to avoid losing influence over sensitive areas such as the health system. By contrast, Degel HaTorah officials argue that unilateral steps weaken the bargaining position of the chareidi factions vis-à-vis the coalition and signal internal division.

The dispute comes at a particularly delicate moment, as the draft law controversy and ongoing tensions with the High Court continue to cast uncertainty over coalition stability.

{Matzav.com}