If one wishes to understand what the priorities of Israel’s 33rd government will be one simply needs to take a look at the coalition agreements signed between the parties. Each party inserted those matters which are atop of their lists, representing their promises to constituents. The coalition agreements serve as a guideline for the new administration.

Included in the list is an Israeli commitment to strive to renew negotiations with the PA (Palestinian Authority) towards advancing peace-making efforts with PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen).

The administration declares it will work to lower prices, aware of the growing number of working poor, those residents who are employed yet cannot pay bills and meet basic expenses due to the high cost of living.

Sharing the burden is high on the government priority list, with a commitment to move ahead with legislation that will compel draft eligible chareidi males to serve in the IDF or a government approved national service.

Changes are planned in the form of government, including a higher minimum threshold for parties seeking to enter Knesset. While in the recent elections that number stood at 2% of the popular vote, which amounted to 2 seats in Knesset, the new standard will be 4%, which is closer to 5 seats. This will prevent smaller parties from entering Knesset.

The new administration announces its commitment to preserving the Jewish character of the state and preserving Jewish tradition. The coalition remains committed to respecting the traditions of all religions.

There will be a major focus on improving religious services to citizens, which will be accomplished by the new expanded Ministry of Religious Services, now responsible over the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, matters pertaining to shmitah, marriage, giyur, divorce and more. This office is under the leadership of Deputy Minister (Bayit Yehudi) Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan, who will maintain ministerial authority.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)