New Haredi party drops leaflets from helicopter in defiant publicity stunt

In an unconventional campaign move, the newly formed Haredi political party ‘HaKehel’ has resorted to dropping promotional leaflets from a helicopter over ultra-Orthodox neighbourhoods across Israel. The dramatic tactic mirrors a historic initiative undertaken half a century ago by Rabbi Menachem Porush, a prominent religious figure, and represents an attempt to break through what the party views as institutional barriers to their message.

The helicopter campaign comes in response to a coordinated decision by Haredi media outlets to block advertisements and coverage of the party’s activities. Haredi newspapers and websites, which wield significant influence within the ultra-Orthodox community, have effectively imposed an information embargo on HaKehel’s political messaging.

Defiant in the face of this media blackout, party representatives issued a strongly-worded statement: “No excommunication or attempt to silence us will prevent our message from reaching the public.” The comment reflects growing tensions between the new political movement and established Haredi institutions that appear to view it as a threat to their influence.

The row highlights divisions within Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community, where religious authority and established political structures have traditionally wielded considerable power over public discourse. HaKehel’s willingness to circumvent traditional channels suggests the party is prepared for a prolonged struggle to establish itself within the insular Haredi political landscape.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.