As Defense Minister Matan Vilnai continues to prepare for the next war, learning from the errors of the Second Lebanon War, he announced that a mayor and other city leaders may not leave their municipality during a war, which was the case in some cities during the Second Lebanon War. A number of municipal leaders opted to relocate to the Greater Tel Aviv area to avoid being in the rocket attack zone.

Vilnai stated that during a state of emergency, City Hall employees will be required to report to their desks and see to the needs of the residents of the municipality. A mayor who is abroad when a state of emergency is declared will be compelled to return according to the new legislation.

Vilnai is also establishing a body to work with people seeking to make donations during a state of emergency as well as volunteer services during a crisis situation.

In another matter, the deputy minister this week will undergo surgery for the removal of a growth from his right lung which was detected during a routine physical exam. Apparently, the growth is related to a gunshot injury sustained by Vilnai during his military service. The deputy minister has informed Defense Minister Barak. Following the surgery, he is expected to recuperate at home for an undetermined period of time.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)