Shas leader Deputy Prime Minister Eli Yishai told Ynet that Maran HaGaon HaRav Ovadia Yosef Shlita remains opposed to early general elections, but nevertheless, the party will not support the new economic sanctions included in the government’s proposed state budget.

“Israel doesn’t need elections, which should be held on the appointed date after passing a state budget in line with social justice considerations” Yishai is quoted as saying.

Yishai believes that due to the controversy surrounding the state budget, the prime minister will call for elections to be held in February 2013.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)