Bibi Kicks Coalition Discussions, Offers Lapid FM or Treasury

Local Editor

"Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered "Yesh Atid" Chairman Yair Lapid a choice between the foreign affairs or finance portfolios, sources close to the two said.

According to Ynet, the two met at Netanyahu's residence on Thursday away from the public eye in a meeting that kicked off the coalition negotiations.
In a post on his Facebook page, Lapid said in response: "What's happening now is neither a coalition negotiation nor the beginning of one. What's most important is patience."
He further added, "I didn't come for a ministry seat, because I already have one."
In parallel, Sources close to Netanyahu and Lapid said that the Yesh Atid chairman was also offered the war portfolio but that he has no interest in it. Lapid is being pressured not to take the finance portfolio in light of the current economic situation and the deep budget deficit, "Israeli" sources said.

Nevertheless, it was noted that should he accept the proposal he may bring in an outside candidate. Conversely, it appears that Lapid is not so keen on accepting the foreign minister position.

Meanwhile, Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman is signaling he may be willing to forfeit the top diplomat post. "The foreign affairs portfolio does not have my name on it," he said in interviews Thursday. Senior officials at the Likud Beiteinu said that in fact he has no choice in the matter.
Lapid on his part is considering demanding to reduce the number of Likud-Beiteinu ministers, a move which would force Netanyahu to let go of several incumbent ministers.


Source: Ynet, Edited by moqawama.org