Shas MK Yinon Azoulay Defends Party Standing Amid Draft Controversy

MK Yinon Azoulay, head of the ШАС faction, addressed the party's standing in current polls, protests from the Jerusalem Faction, and the contentious military draft law during an interview on 103fm.

Polls and Draft Law Controversy

Addressing projections showing a decline in support, Azoulay dismissed the poll numbers, pointing out historical precedents. He stated that the party has often polled lower ahead of elections only to outperform expectations at the ballot box.

"We have never gotten carried away by flattering polls," Azoulay said. "The polls showing us dropping to seven or eight mandates simply mean we need to continue working hard."

Turning to the protests organized by extremist groups outside his home, Azoulay argued that the demonstrations actually prove ШАС is advancing a genuine draft framework that regulates yeshiva exemptions while requiring non-studying youths to enlist.

If the faction comes and protests against us, then everyone understands that we are coming to enact a real draft law in which the status of Torah scholars is regulated, and those who do not study will go to the army.

Family Voices and Internal Criticism

Azoulay also responded to recent criticism voiced by some daughters of the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef regarding the party's educational policies and political direction. He countered by highlighting support from other family members, such as Rabbanit Sarah Toledano, who publicly urged the public to vote strictly for ШАС.

Addressing curriculum concerns regarding core subjects like English and mathematics, Azoulay invited critics to visit the Bnei Yosef seminary network, noting that comprehensive secular studies are integrated alongside religious education. Concluding the interview, he welcomed the inclusion of reserve Lieutenant Colonel Dror Amos on the ШАС slate, emphasizing the party's personal ties to military service and national sacrifice.