Yakov Asher

Shas, UTJ projected to win 12-13 seats in next Knesset, election exit polls predict

Both Shas and UTJ are part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political bloc, and their combined seat total could prove crucial in determining whether he can secure a 61-seat majority.

|ByJERUSALEM POST STAFF
A view of the empty Shas party election headquarters in Jerusalem, following the closing of polling stations and the release of exit poll results on Israel’s general election night, October 27, 2026.
Shas leader MK Arye Deri (L) and United Torah Judaism leader MK Ya’akov Asher.

Shas, UTJ sign surplus vote-sharing deal, pledge cooperation in next Knesset

The two major haredi parties announced a vote-sharing deal to maximize their Knesset seats and pledge a united front on key religious issues after the elections.

|ByKESHET NEEV
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seen with United Torah Judaism (UTJ) MK Moshe Gafni during a 40-signatures debate, at the plenum hall of the Knesset, in Jerusalem, November 10, 2025

Gafni’s ouster marks a changing era for Israel’s haredi parties - and for Netanyahu - analysis

By pushing Gafni out of the next Knesset, the party's rabbinic leadership has served notice that Netanyahu will have to win the haredim back rather than simply count them in.

|ByHERB KEINON