Likud faction chairman in Knesset MK Yariv Levine gives his insight to ongoing efforts to assemble a coalition government. He explains to the Knesset Channel that one must remember negotiations deal with parties that do not necessarily that are alike, but in fact, the parties have differences and different agendas and priorities. He feels the unity that bonds a coalition was missing in the 19th Knesset.

KC:

Following elections you said some parties are making unreasonable demands.

Levine:

Yes, this is the case at times and it is part of the coalition building game. We want to build a nationalist government coalition of 67 members and it is doable and indeed a possibility.

KC:

What about threats that if talks do not work out Likud will turn to the Labor party to form a national unity government?

Levine:

First of all, we do not threaten anyone – we negotiate. At the end of the day we must bridge the gaps and each party must realize it cannot realize all of its dreams. There must be compromise and we must built this type of government coalition. There is no doubt the preferred option is a nationalist government and in my mind it is the only option.

KC:

Which cabinet portfolios do you believe must remain in Likud control?

Levine:

I do not wish to address this question for at the end of the day we will not permit toppling the talks over a single demand. We do want a hand in foreign affairs, defense and economic matters of course. We are negotiating in good faith and there must be compromise.

KC:

What about the Foreign Ministry? It appears it is going to go to Lieberman who said he will not enter the coalition without receiving this.

Levine:

Of course we would like to have this remain in the Likud like all the portfolios but this is not the case and we must negotiate in good faith and there must be mutual respect. At the end there will be compromise and the goal is to achieve stability, a coalition that is solid and will be functional. There must be a partnership in which all the parties work together. That said, Likud is not going to abandon all of its aspirations.

KC:

But Bennett and Lieberman are insulted and have been quite critical of the negotiations to date.

Levine:

I do not get too carried away with their comments, which are part of the game. I am confident we can reach a reasonable correct agreement with the partners as I stated.

KC:

What about reported deals with the chareidim? I understand this has yet to occur. When will a deal be closed with the chareidim?

Levine:

We must understand that signing with one party automatically impacts another and the ongoing talks. For as long as there is progress we can continue like this until agreement is reached and then we can sign with the various parties.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)