Lieberman Accelerates Ultra-Orthodox Coalition Talks, Overcoming Obstacles
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Avigdor Lieberman has emerged as a key player in coalition talks with ultra-Orthodox parties, accelerating negotiations with practical proposals. A major sticking point is the Haredi demand for the draft conscription law to be passed before the new government is formed. Lieberman denies direct talks, attributing negotiations to Gadi Eisenkot, while Prime Minister Netanyahu seeks to keep Haredi parties within the right-wing bloc by advocating for a unity government. Other issues like Shabbat public transport and education also need resolution.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Avigdor Lieberman is accelerating coalition talks with ultra-Orthodox parties by presenting practical proposals.
- Haredi parties demand the draft conscription law be passed before the new government is formed.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu is pushing for a national unity government including Haredi parties.
- Lieberman denies direct negotiations, stating Gadi Eisenkot is leading the talks.
- Other coalition issues include Shabbat public transport, education, and the Jewish character of Israel.
Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, has become a central figure in the ongoing coalition negotiations with the ultra-Orthodox parties, significantly speeding up the process. According to a ynet report, Lieberman's team presented practical proposals, contrasting with earlier, slower discussions led by Gadi Eisenkot's team. A Haredi source described Lieberman's team's approach as "a car accelerating around a turn at 200 kph, overtaking the entire convoy," indicating their serious intent to advance the coalition.
Lieberman's recent public statements and his candidacy for the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairmanship further signal his commitment. During the new Knesset's swearing-in ceremony, Lieberman was seen interacting with MK Yakov Asher and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, suggesting a shift in political dynamics.
Despite these developments, a significant legal and political hurdle remains: the ultra-Orthodox parties' demand that the draft law on military conscription be legislated and pass Supreme Court scrutiny before the new government is formed. This presents a paradox, as a government-backed law typically requires an active government to advance it. Negotiators are actively seeking a solution to this deadlock.
Lieberman publicly maintains a distance from the direct negotiations, stating that while he previously opposed sitting with Haredi parties, the election results necessitate a re-evaluation of the political landscape. He expressed his intention to reintroduce his 2018 draft law, with necessary adjustments and Supreme Court approval. However, he denied direct talks, attributing the negotiations to Gadi Eisenkot, who was tasked with forming the government.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is working to prevent the Haredi parties from leaving the right-wing bloc, calling for a national unity government that includes them. Beyond conscription, other key issues requiring agreement include the Jewish character of Israel, public transportation on Shabbat, maintaining the status quo, and education. MK Yakov Asher emphasized that the draft law, while important, is not more critical than these other matters.
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