Shas chairman Aryeh Deri said that the appointment of Rav Yitzchak Edelstein as chief rabbi of Ramat Hasharon fulfilled a personal commitment he made years ago to the new rov‘s father and uncle, two of the most prominent gedolim of the previous generation.

Speaking to close associates after the selection, Deri described the moment as the culmination of a long-awaited pledge. “Thank G-d that I merited to fulfill the promise I made to his father, Rav Yaakov Edelstein, and to his uncle, Rav Gershon Edelstein. This was their special request to me, and for years I waited to carry out this wish. Thank G-d we worked toward his election, and today he was chosen.”

The story behind the commitment dates back to the final days of Rav Yaakov Edelstein, the longtime rov of Ramat Hasharon. While on his deathbed, he asked Deri to come see him and personally requested that he do everything in his power to ensure that his son, Rav Yitzchak Edelstein, would succeed him as the city’s rov. According to those close to Deri, he gave his word at that time that he would work to make it happen.

Ramat Hasharon Mayor Yitzchak Rochberger also praised Deri’s efforts, saying the outcome would not have been achieved without his involvement. “If not for Rabbi Aryeh Deri, who acted and stood like a rock for the election of Rav Edelstein, we would not have reached this day.”

The pledge was strengthened further during the shivah period following Rav Yaakov Edelstein’s passing. Deri came to comfort the family, and Rav Gershon Edelstein was also present. After offering condolences, Rav Gershon asked to speak privately with Deri in his car, where he again urged him to work toward appointing his nephew, Rav Yitzchak Edelstein, as rov of Ramat Hasharon in order to continue his father’s legacy and the spiritual transformation he led in the city. Deri again assured him that he would act on the request.

Sources within Shas said that throughout the recent round of rabbinic appointments across the country, the Ramat Hasharon position was effectively reserved for Rav Yitzchak Edelstein. According to those familiar with the matter, Deri worked together with former minister Michael Malkieli and Religious Services Ministry Director-General Yehuda Avidan to advance the process and secure his appointment.

After the results were announced, Rav Yitzchak Edelstein held an emotional conversation with Deri, thanking him sincerely for his efforts and for honoring the wishes of his father and uncle.