Moroccan-born Israeli rabbi and politician who served as Minister of Internal Affairs, known for his leadership in the Shas party and influence on Israeli politics. He's a prominent figure in Israeli religious and political circles.
Aryeh Deri is a name synonymous with Israeli politics, founder of the Shas party, and a veteran of the country's cabinet. With a career spanning over three decades, Deri has held numerous ministerial positions, including Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Health, and Minister of the Interior and Periphery.
Deri was born on February 17, 1959, in Meknes, Morocco, to a traditional Jewish family. His father, Eliyahu Deri, owned a successful tailoring business, and his mother, Esther Deri (née Azougi), was influenced by French culture. Deri's family immigrated to Israel in 1968, where he enrolled in Ozar Hatorah, a school that combined secular and Orthodox Jewish religious education.
Deri's entry into politics began in the 1980s, when he became involved with the Shas party, which he co-founded in 1984. The party's focus on providing social services and promoting Sephardic Jewish identity resonated with many Israeli citizens. Deri's charisma and leadership skills quickly propelled him to the forefront of the party, and he became its chairman in 1985.
Deri's ministerial career has been marked by several high-profile positions, including Minister of the Interior, Minister of the Development of the Negev and Galilee, and Minister of the Economy. However, his tenure has also been marred by controversies and scandals. In 1999, Deri was convicted of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust and sentenced to three years in prison.
After his prison sentence, Deri returned to politics, leading the Shas party to significant electoral successes. In 2013, he was reappointed as the party's chairman, and in 2022, he was appointed Vice Prime Minister, Interior Minister, and Health Minister in the thirty-seventh government.
In January 2023, the Supreme Court of Israel ruled that Deri was ineligible to hold a ministerial position due to his criminal convictions and the terms of his plea deal. This ruling led to his dismissal from his official posts in the Israeli cabinet.
Deri's political ideology is rooted in his commitment to social justice and the welfare of Sephardic Jews. He has been a vocal advocate for increasing government support for low-income families and promoting affordable housing. Deri's philosophy also emphasizes the importance of traditional Jewish values in Israeli society.
Deri's impact on Israeli society is undeniable. Through his work with the Shas party, he has provided essential social services to underserved communities and promoted Sephardic Jewish identity. While controversy has surrounded his career, Deri remains a significant figure in Israeli politics.
Deri's ministerial career has been marked by several notable achievements, including:
Despite the ups and downs, Aryeh Deri remains an influential figure in Israeli politics, with a legacy that continues to shape the country's social and political landscape.
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