Eliakim Stark, the newly selected Belzer representative on the United Torah Judaism Knesset slate, has pledged to give working Chareidim a stronger voice in public life, saying that their growing numbers and concerns can no longer be overlooked.

Stark, who was chosen to replace longtime Knesset member Yisroel Eichler, discussed his plans in an extensive interview with Yishai Cohen of Kikar HaShabbat, addressing the challenges facing working Chareidim, his relationship with established political figures, and his friendship with the leader of a rival Chareidi political movement.

The 35-year-old Belzer chossid said he intends to represent Chareidim who work for a living while remaining committed to their Torah values and community traditions.

He emphasized that working Chareidim have become an increasingly significant part of the community and deserve recognition and representation within its established institutions.

Rather than pursuing change through a separate political framework, Stark expressed confidence that meaningful progress can be achieved from within the existing Chareidi parties.

One of the notable revelations in the interview concerned his close friendship with Moti Leitner, the leader of the rival HaTzibur HaChareidi political movement.

Despite their different political approaches, Stark described Leitner as a close friend, illustrating the personal relationships that can exist even among figures representing competing visions for Chareidi political representation.

Stark also addressed his relationship with Eichler, whose seat he is expected to assume, and discussed the responsibilities that come with representing the Belzer community in the Knesset.

The interview touched on broader challenges facing the Chareidi public, including employment opportunities, political representation and the ongoing controversy surrounding military conscription.

Stark's selection marks a generational change in Belz's Knesset representation and comes amid growing discussion over how established Chareidi political institutions should respond to the needs of working families and younger members of the community.

His remarks suggest that he intends to focus on strengthening the connection between traditional Chareidi leadership and community members whose daily circumstances may differ from those of full-time kollel yungeleit.

As he prepares to enter the Knesset, Stark faces the challenge of translating those commitments into practical representation while maintaining the support of the political and communal leadership that selected him.