Haredi Activist Discusses Coalition Moves as Opposition Eyes Knesset Vote
Ultra-Orthodox activist Mordechai Zeev Blau discussed coalition talks on television, as opposition factions prepare to coordinate a candidate for Knesset Speaker amid ongoing political deadlock.
Amid ongoing political deadlock following the elections for the 26th Knesset, ultra-Orthodox political activist Mordechai Zeev Blau appeared on Rafi Reshef's television program to discuss coalition maneuvers and behind-the-scenes talks with Haredi factions.
Opening the interview in a lighthearted manner, Blau quipped to the anchor, "Good evening to you, Rabbi Raphael the Angel. I am sure you have already bought tzitzit, put on tefillin, worn a kippah, and started keeping Shabbat. Just come with us, right?".
Reshef, amused by the remarks, noted that the two men were born in the same year, sparking a brief exchange about their shared birth year during the Suez Crisis.
Coalition Talks and Knesset Leadership
Reshef pressed the activist on crucial political questions, specifically asking whether Haredi parties would support replacing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana. Blau avoided a definitive answer, stating, "I am ambivalent, I do not want to elaborate. It depends on what happens. By the way, have you already worked things out with Lieberman?".
Meanwhile, leaders of the change bloc are scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss forming a consensus on a candidate for Knesset Speaker. On Monday, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman announced he would recommend Gadi Eisenkot for prime minister and support Yair Golan for the role of Knesset Speaker.
Political sources indicate that Haredi parties have signaled they intend to abstain from voting if the motion to replace Amir Ohana is brought to the floor, potentially paving the way for the opposition to secure the change.
