Yisrael Beitenu leader Avigdor Lieberman is seeking the defense portfolio in the forming government. Realizing the fulfillment of this request will not be an easy task, Lieberman added that he will entertain other options as well, as talks between coalition negotiators continue.

Speaking to Channel 2 News on motzei Shabbos, Lieberman stressed that the issue of cabinet posts will not determine his party’s entry into the coalition.

Contradicting his earlier position, Lieberman stated that the key to a broad-based government that would include the major parties in a rotating leadership. He added that if Kadima opts for the opposition at present, he believes the party will join in a number of months of alternatively; the party will split as a result.

Lieberman stressed that the many serious problems facing the nation demand a broad coalition government and he calls on Kadima to act responsibly and respond to the realities of the current situation.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)