“Israel” Closes Embassies Worldwide as Diplomats Go on Indefinite Strike
Local Editor
Employees of "Israel's" Foreign Ministry went on an all-out strike Sunday for the first time in the Zionist entity's history over a dispute surrounding workers' salaries and conditions.
The dispute has been going on for nearly two years. Seven months of negotiations ended on March 4, when workers rejected a proposal by the Finance Ministry.
"Israeli" ambassadors abroad will not go to work, no consular services will be available, and "Israel" will not be represented at any international gatherings during the strike. Even the Foreign Ministry's political leadership and management will be locked out.
The strike is indefinite and will affect everyone, including employers bringing foreign workers to "Israel" for work, immigrants, and anyone who wants to travel to the occupied Palestine - including foreign dignitaries.
A statement issued by the FM said the strike would be "open ended" because of the "employment conditions for "Israeli" diplomats and because of the dring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's planned trip to Mexico, Panama, and Colombia next month, as well as Pope Francis' planned visit to occupied Palestine in May.
Avigdor Lieberman said the worker's committee has "lost its head" in what was a "miserable decision."
"This move has no benefit, and will only cause more damage to the ministry's workers. I'm sorry that these irresponsible steps will come at the expense of the country's citizens," he said.
The diplomats are demanding an increase in their monthly salaries and want compensation for their spouses who have to quit jobs because of foreign postings.
Yair Frommer, the head of the worker's committee, said the Treasury will not be able to "prevent boycotts of "Israel", will not foster business transactions that yield huge economic benefits and will not raise our voices at the UN Security Council."
Source: agencies, edited by website team
Comments
- Related News
