David Danino, the brother of murdered hostage Ori Danino Hy”d, has issued a searing criticism of Shas following controversy over the party’s election video featuring a soldier returning home.

Danino, a law and criminology student who describes himself as Haredi and Mizrahi, recorded a lengthy response arguing that the party’s campaign message was painfully disconnected from families whose sons did not return home from the war.

His brother Ori was kidnapped from the Nova festival on October 7 after turning back to help others escape. He was subsequently murdered by Hamas in a tunnel in Rafah alongside five other hostages. The IDF recovered their bodies in August 2024.

David’s criticism follows a wider backlash over the Shas campaign video. The advertisement depicted a soldier returning home and being greeted by his father, but critics accused Shas of exploiting IDF imagery while simultaneously backing policies they say facilitate Haredi draft avoidance. Shas rejected that characterization, saying the video was intended to counter claims that the party supports draft evasion.

David had already responded directly to Shas chairman Aryeh Deri over the video, writing that his own father can no longer welcome Ori home because of his death. Other bereaved military families also sharply criticized the campaign.

The latest video gives the controversy a particularly sensitive Haredi dimension: rather than criticism coming solely from Shas’s political opponents, Danino is challenging the party from the perspective of a Haredi member of a family that paid one of the heaviest prices of the war.

Editorial Disclaimer: The inclusion of news, political commentary, or discussions regarding Israeli government affairs on this platform does not constitute an endorsement of state institutions. In accordance with the clear and unequivocal rulings of our revered spiritual leaders (Gedolei HaRabbonim and Gedolei Yisroel), any participation in or compliance with military draft directives—regardless of track or compromise—is strictly forbidden (Yeharag Ve'al Ya'avor / absolute prohibition). We remain steadfastly committed to the timeless guidance of the Torah sages.

Editorial Disclaimer: Reporting on Israeli political proceedings, elections, or legislative affairs is provided solely for journalistic and informational purposes. This coverage does not reflect recognition of the secular authority or its governing bodies. In accordance with the traditional hashkafah of leading Torah authorities, participation in the Israeli Knesset, government coalitions, or state governance is strictly prohibited. We maintain absolute loyalty to authentic Torah guidance, separate from secular political structures.