Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Within Likud Over Haredi Influence
2/27/2026, 1:39:48 AM
Internal Conflict in Likud Party
The ruling Likud party's ultra-Orthodox wing has raised alarms regarding what it perceives as an organized effort by Haredi factions to infiltrate and influence the party from within. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the ultra-Orthodox wing accused activists affiliated with the Knesset’s Haredi factions of attempting to misdirect elected officials and undermine the party's leadership. The letter emphasized that these efforts are not legitimate participation but rather a calculated move to weaken Likud and its principles of democracy.
The ultra-Orthodox wing specifically called for the establishment of "filtering mechanisms" to ensure that new members are genuine supporters of Likud, rather than representatives of other political parties. This internal strife comes as the party has seen a significant increase in Haredi membership, which has tripled in recent years, coinciding with a broader political struggle over military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men.
Background on Haredi Membership Growth
The surge in Haredi membership within Likud is part of a larger recruitment drive aimed at revitalizing the party's base. Notably, public relations strategist Yossi Rosenbaum has registered over 2,163 new members, contributing to a total of approximately 7,300 new Likud voters. This growth has raised concerns among some party members about the potential for Haredi factions to exert undue influence over party decisions, particularly regarding sensitive issues like military service exemptions.
Historically, the ultra-Orthodox community has primarily engaged in politics through the United Torah Judaism party and the Shas party. However, the recent departure of United Torah Judaism from the coalition and ongoing tensions surrounding military draft legislation have prompted a shift in strategy, with some Haredi factions seeking to influence mainstream politics through Likud.
Legislative Implications and Military Draft Controversy
The backdrop of this internal conflict is a contentious debate over military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men. Following a ruling by the High Court of Justice in June 2024 that struck down broad exemptions, Likud is currently promoting a bill aimed at increasing enlistment while still exempting yeshiva students. However, opposition within the party complicates the bill's passage.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has indicated a shortage of approximately 12,000 troops, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Despite the cessation of hostilities, the military continues to face challenges in meeting its recruitment goals, particularly among the 80,000 eligible ultra-Orthodox men who have not enlisted.
Criticism and Responses
In response to the allegations of infiltration, representatives from the Haredi factions, including Degel HaTorah and Agudat Yisrael, have denied any coordinated effort to take over Likud. A spokesman for Degel HaTorah chairman Moshe Gafni stated that the movement is not involved in any such campaign, while officials from Agudat Yisrael did not provide immediate comments.
The situation reflects a broader struggle within Israeli politics as the Likud party navigates the complexities of integrating Haredi interests while maintaining its foundational principles and addressing pressing legislative challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “seeking to take part in the movement’s path, but rather an organized movement aimed at harming and weakening Likud and its leader,” — Likud Ultra-Orthodox Wing
- “the goal of these elements is completely the opposite, creating a distorted internal pressure mechanism that will subordinate its representatives to external political actors,” — Likud Ultra-Orthodox Wing
