UTJ. The ultra-Orthodox party that turned its back on Netanyahu

The United Torah Judaism party has refused to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu for Prime Minister, signaling a rift with the Likud party. This decision complicates Netanyahu's efforts to maintain power as rival Gadi Eisenkot gains support. The UTJ, representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Jews, demands exemptions from military service, a promise Netanyahu has failed to fulfill. Eisenkot's campaign for universal enlistment contrasts with UTJ values, yet he is gaining traction among various political factions, including Arab parties. The ultra-Orthodox community, comprising about 14% of Israel's population, prioritizes religious study over military service and has resisted changes to their status. Their political engagement aims to protect their interests, including military exemptions and funding for religious education, while remaining largely indifferent to broader nationalistic sentiments.