Seeking to bring a ray of light to the internally divided Labor Party, Defense Minister Ehud Barak is claiming the credit for the move, which is perceived as a welcome policy announcement in the left-wing camp. He is hoping that the self-proclaimed victory will help restore a measure of respectability to his waning popularity.
The response from Likud cabinet ministers was far less than enthusiastic, with many decrying the decision, including Deputy Prime Minister Silvan Shalom, who stated emphatically the move will do nothing towards bringing the PA (Palestinian Authority) back to the negotiating table any quicker, while it is contrary to national interests. Shalom was not among the ministers present when the freeze was voted upon, telling the media he was not informed as to the purpose for the meeting in advance.
Speaking on Sunday at the weekly Likud ministerial meeting that generally precedes the weekly cabinet meeting, Shalom stated such a move compelled the prime minister to convene the party ministers in advance of his decision to discuss the major policy decision. Minister Erdan and other members of cabinet from Likud expressed their opposition to the move as well.
Surprisingly, among the prime minister’s supports was hawkish minister, Dr. Binyamin Begin, who stated thousands of housing units throughout Yehuda and Shomron that have already begun will continue. He explained the ‘freeze’ will however prevent issuing new building permits.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
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HaSh-m, please take note that Barak is taking “credit” for this building “freeze”. I’m sure when he gets “upstairs” he will deny he had anything to do with it. HKB”H, please keep the audio and video of his statement in perfect condition, so You can play it for him at the appropriate time!