There is speculation that Tel Aviv Chief Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau Shlita, a former Chief Rabbi of Israel, may be contemplating entering the race to become Israel’s 10th president. Many believe that if Rav Lau announces his candidacy he will enjoy the support of chareidi parties along with Bayit Yehudi. Persons close to Rav Lau discard the speculative reports, stating Rabbi Lau is not considering running.

Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein this week announced the presidential election will take place on12 Sivan 5774.

Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) reported that if asked to run by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Rav Lau will weigh entering the race.

Currently the official contenders in the presidential race include MKs Binyamin Ben-Eliezer (Labor), Meir Sheetrit (The Movement) and Reuven Rivlin (Likud).

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)