The position has remained effectively vacant or under acting arrangements since Shas Interior Minister Moshe Arbel resigned in July 2025 amid the party's exit from the government over Haredi conscription disputes. Yariv Levin has handled related duties alongside his Justice and other portfolios, while High Court pressure prompted Prime Minister Netanyahu's July 2026 commitment to name a permanent successor during the current election period. With parliamentary elections approaching and coalition talks expected afterward, traders see the outcome hinging on post-election bargaining among Likud, Shas, Religious Zionism, Otzma Yehudit, and potential partners. Contenders such as Aryeh Deri, Levin, Arbel, Israel Katz, and Ayelet Shaked each carry support from different factions or historical claims, but no one has secured binding commitments. Shifts in seat totals, specific portfolio demands during negotiations, or renewed legal deadlines could quickly consolidate support behind one name or extend the vacancy.