It appears that the new coalition will rest on a majority of 65 as it becomes increasingly clear that Kadima and Labor are resolved to remaining in opposition.

Yisrael Beitenu however does appear headed for the coalition, and is making major demands, including either control of the treasury or foreign affairs portfolio. While party leader Avigdor Lieberman may not be eligible to hold the senior posts because he is currently the subject of major police investigations, the party states there is no reason that other party members cannot hold the positions.

In actuality, Lieberman has also stated the defense portfolio would satisfy the party, but in conversations with close associates, Binyamin Netanyahu states the defense portfolio will not be given to Lieberman, insisting such a move is a non-starter. In addition, Yisrael Beitenu is also demanding either the justice of public security portfolios. Most believe that number two on the party list, Dr. Uzi Landau, who was formally a member of Likud and served as public security minister, may land the slot again in the now-forming coalition.

Likud and Yisrael Beitenu negotiators are scheduled to meet on Wednesday afternoon in Ramat Gan to get down to business.

In a weekend interview with Yediot Achronot, Lieberman stated “I have met a number of foreign ministers and truth be said, they are not accustomed to my style but added, any country in the world would happily accept me as foreign minister with the exception of Egypt.”

In Likud however, the thought of Lieberman becoming the foreign minister is cause for concern, with some explaining if he receives the post, there will be an “intifada inside Likud”.

Heading the Likud negotiating team is MK Gideon Saar, who is a candidate for justice minister.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)