Jerusalem, 21 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Tuesday night with Moti Leitner, chairman of the Haredi Public Party, to persuade him to withdraw from the October 27 Knesset election.
On Wednesday, IDF soldiers begin voting in frontline posts.
The party could divert votes from right-wing and Haredi parties, potentially affecting their representation in the next parliament. Netanyahu’s office has sought to enlist Rabbi David Leibel, whose students include several party candidates and senior figures, to help persuade the party to drop out. Leibel has not publicly endorsed the party, although Leitner has said he would welcome his support.
Separately, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is reportedly conducting accelerated negotiations with Leitner. Proposals under discussion reportedly include a joint press conference with Netanyahu and appointing Leitner as a Haredi community affairs czar.
Despite the efforts, Leitner insists he intends to remain in the race until election day.
