While Shas leader Aryeh Deri a number of weeks ago informed Tzvika Cohen that he would not be the party�s candidate in the Elad mayoral race, it appears that Deri has had a change of heart. However this is conditional on Cohen making peace with Elad�s Chief Sephardi Rabbi Mordechai Malka Shlita. Rav Malka is adamantly opposed to having the former mayor, Cohen, run as a candidate in the mayoral race.

Shas officials point out that Deri has great respect for the rav and he will not run with a candidate if the rav is strongly opposed. Therefore, Deri informed Cohen that the decision is not final � apparently contingent on Cohen�s ability to persuade Rav Malka to change his mind.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)