The Knesset on Monday, 29 Tishrei 5773 opened the winter session and as was expected, voted to disband in preparation for general elections.

Speakers included President Shimon Peres, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and opposition leader MK Shaul Mofaz.

The prime minister detailed the accomplishments of his government, making a point of during his seven years in office during his first and second term as prime minister, “there were no wars”, explaining he has succeeded in showing Israel’s enemies that while Israel exercises restraint, it remains strong and maintains a zero tolerance policy to terrorism. He stated that only this strong and determined policy can prevent war, and this is proven by his track record.

Mofaz on the other hand called the prime minister a “coward” and blamed him for not succeeding in achieving any significant accomplishments.

The expected move, approving early elections and dissolving the Knesset took place and the general election is set for January 22, 2012, 11 Shevat 5773.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)