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The Shas party has announced its decision to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu as its candidate for prime minister to form the next government, according to reports from Walla and Ynet. The party’s Council of Torah Sages made the recommendation following what Shas described as Netanyahu’s “clear and uncompromising” statement of continued support and commitment to regularising the status of Torah students.

The endorsement comes as part of coalition negotiations following elections. Shas stated in its announcement that the decision was made in light of Netanyahu’s explicit commitments regarding Torah study legislation, a key policy priority for the religious party.

The recommendation follows meetings between Shas Knesset members and rabbinical leaders. Other right-wing parties including Jewish Power and Religious Zionism are also expected to recommend Netanyahu, whilst United Torah Judaism has not yet indicated its position according to Ynet’s reporting.

Sources: Walla, Times of Israel, Ynet, Jerusalem Post