The Kadima faction of Knesset will meet on Sunday for the first time since the general election. There is a growing realization that it is entirely possible that the presidential mandate to form a government will go to Binyamin Netanyahu, not Tzipi Livni. Such a reality has prompted party leader Livni to announce that she will either be the next prime minister or leader of the opposition, ruling out entering into a coalition government with the Likud.

Some Kadima officials feel that until the president has rendered his decision, efforts should continue towards the establishment of a coalition including Likud and Kadima, with an agreement providing a rotation for the premiership between the party leaders. Likud leader Netanyahu has already discounted such an option, stating it is a non-starter as far as he is concerned.

Livni over the weekend told close associates that she does not see any point in joining a right-wing chareidi coalition, or a government headed by Netanyahu. Some of her supporters are recommending that she head to the opposition and rebuild to “return in a year with 40 mandates”.

Some are reporting that Labor is seriously considering entering a Netanyahu-led coalition, but only with Kadima and not in its place. It also appears that Labor is signaling it will not enter with Yisrael Beitenu and Ichud HaLeumi.

While Likud does not have a coalition in hand, Netanyahu feels he can count on Shas (11), Ichud HaLeumi (4) and Bayit Yehuda (3), hoping that Yisrael Beitenu, and/or Labor will complete the deal.

Persons close to Netanyahu explain the party leader believes he can bridge the gap between Yisrael Beitenu and Shas, explaining that after the elections, the political differences diminish and practicality enters in its place.

Yisrael Beitenu MK Stas Misezhnikov explains that the inclusion of the party in any coalition depends on the party’s major points, including (1) a change in the form of government, (2) a law demanding loyalty from citizens, (3) a law recognizing civil marriage, (4) wiping out the Hamas regime in Gaza and (5) the formation of an emergency aliyah cabinet. Misezhnikov stresses the list does not represent an ultimatum, just a commitment made by his party to its supporters.

Reliable rumors in the political arena add that Lieberman is demanding the justice ministry portfolio remains in the hands of Daniel Friedman, the current minister. It is assumed that the party will also seek the tourism portfolio for Yitzchak Aharonovitch, the public security post for Dr. Uzi Landau, and the housing portfolio for Misezhnikov. Lieberman himself will seek the foreign ministry of treasury positions.

Misezhnikov explains that prior to making a final decision regarding recommendations to the president; Yisrael Beitenu awaits a response from Likud and Kadima regarding its platform and agenda. He added the first person who will hear the party’s final decision is President Peres.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)