Who they are
Elimelech was born in Yeruham and worked as deputy director of Rabbi Yoram Abergel's educational institutions in Netivot. He became chairman of Achi in June 2026. His education is not established in the sources reviewed.
Positions and record
Haredi enlistment: A young man sitting and learning should sit and learn. One who is not should enlist, in a place that suits him.
Core studies: He supports teaching core subjects. He says the move of his Netivot schools into the state-Haredi stream involved nearly 1,200 pupils and went ahead despite threats and boycotts.
Shas: He says he is not trying to take a bite out of Shas, and that his party will be what Shas was in Rabbi Ovadia's day.
Where they stand
Holds the party line on every issue.
Judea & Samariaparty lineNo piece of the land may be given up, on the Rebbe's ruling
Two states / withdrawalSovereignty / annexation
Gaza & Securityparty lineIt has said nothing about Gaza beyond backing the soldiers
Deal & disengagementFull military control
Haredi Enlistmentparty lineExemption only for the genuinely learning; the rest enlist
Universal draftPreserve exemptions
Judiciaryparty lineIt has taken no position on the courts
Court can strike lawsKnesset can override
Economyparty lineNo economic platform, only that school money should reach the schools
Social spendingFree market
Religion & Stateparty lineRabbinic leadership, but core studies and no coercion
Civil / pluralistReligious authority
Nation & Citizenshipparty lineIt has taken no position on citizenship or minority rights
Equal citizenshipJewish national state