Labor Party leader Defense Minister Ehud Barak telephoned MK Chaim Oron to congratulate him following his victory in the Meretz Party leadership race. Oron emerged the victor, beating out MKs Ran Cohen and Zahava Gal-On.

Barak did not waste time; inviting Meretz to join the coalition government, which today includes Kadima, Labor, Shas and the Pensioners Party. Barak explained that Meretz can make a significant contribution in ongoing efforts towards achieving peace with the Palestinian Authority.

Oron thanked Barak for his good wishes and added it was not the time to discuss such an offer.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)