Former Shas spokesman now advisor to Netanyahu
Itzik Sudri reportedly involved in Likud's efforts to prevent haredi party from joining Livni-led coalition
Former Shas spokesman Itzik Sudri has joined Likud Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu's team of advisors, Ynet reported on Sunday.
Sudri is reportedly involved in Likud's efforts to prevent the haredi party from joining a coalition led by designated prime minister Tzipi Livni.
Sources close to Netanyahu told Ynet that Sudri is serving as an external consultant for matters related to religious media, adding that he was brought on board due to his extensive contacts within the haredi community.
Sudri is considered a close associate of Shas spiritual leader Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and of Deputy Prime Minister Eli Yishai, the haredi party's chairman.
Likud officials said Sudri is also serving as a mediator between Netanyahu and Rabbi Yosef.
In September Peres formally tasked Livni to form a new coalition government within 28 days after she was elected to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Ehud Olmert as head of their Kadima party.
AFP contributed to the report
