Shas unveils ticket for 26th Knesset with changes in core leadership, reserve officer in top six

Shas released its candidate list for the 26th Knesset on Tuesday, following days of internal debate over major changes to its parliamentary lineup. Amos's placement is the standout addition to the new slate. He served in the IDF for 25 years and retired from full-time service as a lieutenant colonel. Deri dropped an early hint during a visit to Haifa, telling local officials about Amos: "Enjoy him while you can; I don't know how much longer he will stay with you." Party strategists hope his background will appeal to traditionalist and military-serving voters - demographics that have long been crucial to the party's base. The timing is equally strategic: with military conscription for the ultra-Orthodox set to dominate the upcoming election campaign, Shas can now highlight a veteran reserve officer high on its ballot. Jonah Davidov contributed to this report.