Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked on Tuesday morning 26 Adar spoke with Kol Chai Radio host Betzalel Kahan, explaining her perception of the current political picture. She feels that while many are saying “the ball is in Avigdor Lieberman’s court”, both Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman have the ability to prevent early elections.

Lieberman can climb down from his high ladder and support the new draft bill, which represents significant chareidi compromise. However, to date, he has not done so and even instructed Absorption Minister Sofia Landver to vote against the bill when presented to the Ministerial Legislative Committee instead of absenting herself or abstaining. Many feel this is proof that he is determined to head to new elections, but according to the two most recent polls, he either remains at six seats or loses two and drops to four.

Shaked adds PM Netanyahu can also prevent elections, even if Lieberman resigns, as he remains with a coalition of 61, a one-seat majority. This too is doable, adding she is opposed to early elections and hopes the two senior officials will work it out.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)