Ultra-Orthodox Parties Weigh Coalition Options Ahead of 2026 Knesset Elections
Ultra-Orthodox parties face limited coalition options following the upcoming Knesset elections, with Degel HaTorah officials suggesting potential outside support amid deep disputes over the conscription law.
Following the October 2026 Knesset elections, the options available to ultra-Orthodox lawmakers regarding the conscription law and coalition alignments remain strictly limited. Senior officials in Degel HaTorah stated on Sunday that it would take at least eight months to enter any government, if at all.
With the 26th Knesset elections approaching in less than two weeks, ultra-Orthodox politicians must navigate a complex political minefield regardless of whether the change bloc or the Netanyahu bloc prevails. While the historic alliance with the right-wing bloc seems natural, Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to deliver tangible results remains deeply questionable. Degel HaTorah officials noted that their recommendation to the Torah sages will likely be to support a coalition from the outside.
While the right-wing bloc remains closely aligned with the ultra-Orthodox parties, the alternative bloc presents a mixed picture. Yashar! party leader Gadi Eisenkot projects a more pragmatic approach, keeping communication channels open regarding civil service quotas, whereas figures like Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Lieberman, and Yair Lapid maintain much stricter stances on conscription and core curricula.