The people have spoken. We can bow our heads and collapse, but we instead humbly accept the decision of the voters and thank those who supported us. We must use the results to learn lessons, first and foremost, me. We are servants of the public with a holy task and we must do so with integrity, desire and pride…

I have been in public service since the age of 17.5, almost 50 years, and plan to continue as long as I am permitted to do so (applause). I plan to leave here and begin working tonight to begin bringing Labor back to a fitting place…

I do not recommend that anyone count on our support in any position. Nothing is finalized. We are more concerned with what is good for the nation, not for the party, and we will not enter any coalition that negates the party platform. If reality demands, we will serve the nation from the benches of opposition (applause).

Wherever we are, in the coalition or opposition, we will work towards government reform, a new system of government. It is unacceptable that a ruling party represents only 25% of a ruling coalition… we must emerge from this political abyss and realize we must implement a change for a better future…

Also tonight I say to Family Shalit I will do everything to bring Gilad home as quickly as possible (applause). This is my commitment and responsibility. There are those who were quick to eulogize Labor and I recommend they slow down. We are alive and vibrant and will continue…

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)