Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat is expected to leave on Wednesday for a two-week vacation, heading for the United States. Deputy Mayor Kobi Kahlon will fill in during the mayor’s absence.

Criticism can be heard regarding the mayor’s departure at this time while tensions continue surrounding the Karta parking lot operating on shabbos and the so-called Munchausen mother case. Some of the criticism comes from members of the city council who fear a possible escalation in the case demands the mayor’s presence.

Spokespersons for the mayor explain that Mr. Barkat’s schedule is set quite a bit of time in advance and his vacation in America includes a number of working meetings, contributing to the decision not to push off the trip despite the tensions prevailing in the capital. Officials add that Kahlon will remain in constant touch with the mayor, stressing his absence during vacation will not result in a leadership void in City Hall.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)