There is anger in the left-wing community following a decision by Housing Minister Uri Ariel to expand yishuvim to make room for expected wave of immigration from France, left-wing journalist Amnon Abramowitz reported on Channel 2.

Following the attack that claimed the lives of four members of the Paris Jewish community in the Hyper Kosher supermarket, Ariel gave the word to begin expanding and preparing for the influx of new immigrants from France. Ariel has already been in contact with the Israel Lands Administration and the Yesha Council, instructing the latter to prepare for a large influx of people. Ariel asked the council to locate and report which communities can be expanded.

Meretz party leader MK Zahava Gal-On has turned to Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein pointing out this is a transition government and elections are only weeks away.

In his response Ariel stated “Unlike Gal-On and her colleagues, the Jews in France are real Zionists. I am working to find housing solutions to absorb immigrants in all areas of the country”.

Labor leader Yitzchak Herzog and The Movement leader Tzipi Livni stated “This Zionist process not only compromises Israel’s position in the international community, but it will deepen our isolation that is caused by Prime Minister Netanyahu and will harm Jews in the Diaspora”.

Absorption Ministry officials stated “It would be wise for Minister Ariel to concern himself with his ministry, and not immigrant absorption”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)