Analysis: The changing face of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox politics

United Torah Judaism, Israel's main ultra-Orthodox party, declined to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu to form a government following recent elections, signaling a shift in the longtime political alliance between Netanyahu and Haredi parties. The move reflects broader changes within ultra-Orthodox society, including declining influence of veteran leaders, succession struggles, and a new political force challenging established conventions. Younger Haredi voters and the Lithuanian community appear more responsive to the October 7 Hamas attack's impact on Israeli society than traditional spiritual leadership.