Coalition Talks: Ultra-Orthodox Engagement and "Change Bloc" Tensions
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
Gadi Eisenkot, tasked with forming Israel's next government, is negotiating with the "Change Bloc" and ultra-Orthodox parties. Key discussions involve conscription laws and judicial reform, with significant disagreements between Avigdor Lieberman and other bloc members. Lieberman insists on procedural changes before addressing judicial reform repeal, while ultra-Orthodox parties demand swift passage of conscription legislation. Tensions within the "Change Bloc" are high as Eisenkot seeks to finalize coalition agreements.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot is negotiating coalition agreements with the "Change Bloc" and ultra-Orthodox parties.
- Avigdor Lieberman opposes immediate repeal of judicial reform laws, prioritizing other procedural changes.
- Ultra-Orthodox parties demand swift passage of a conscription law after government formation.
- Eisenkot's camp is open to easing sanctions on draft evaders for Haredi conscription support.
- Tensions are high within the "Change Bloc" over Lieberman's priorities.
- Roi Folkman has been appointed to head the Knesset's organizational committee.
Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and tasked with forming a government, is continuing coalition negotiations with leaders of the "Change Bloc." A key meeting is scheduled for November 9 with Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, to discuss coalition tactics and the next Knesset speaker.
Eisenkot is pushing for a minority government that would later expand to include ultra-Orthodox parties. Sources close to Eisenkot suggest a willingness to ease sanctions on draft evaders and approve a "light" conscription law in exchange for ultra-Orthodox support for a government program to increase Haredi enlistment. The "Change Bloc" is also engaging with ultra-Orthodox businessmen to facilitate Haredi conscription.
However, prospects for an agreement with Yisrael Beiteinu appear slim, according to Haredi sources. Lieberman has stated that any progress requires the approval of a bill by the High Court of Justice (BAGATS). United Torah Judaism, meanwhile, demands guarantees, including preliminary approval of a conscription law immediately after the government is sworn in, followed by swift passage through all readings.
Tensions persist within the "Change Bloc." Lieberman reportedly opposes the immediate repeal of judicial reform laws, insisting instead on first changing the Knesset speaker, electing a state comptroller, and passing a bill limiting prime ministerial terms. "Everything else comes later," stated sources close to Lieberman.
The Democratic Party criticized Lieberman, suggesting he could form a government with Likud if he opposes Haredi conscription and judicial reform repeal. Lieberman responded sharply, defending his proposed order of priorities, which includes changing the speaker, electing a comptroller, and limiting prime ministerial terms before repealing "coup laws." After the Knesset is sworn in, an organizational committee will be formed to manage parliamentary affairs during coalition formation, headed by Roi Folkman, representing the government-forming party.
Mentioned
