Deputy Finance Minister MK Itzik Cohen told Galei Tzahal this morning that he is optimistic at the chances of achieving compromise regarding the ongoing budget dispute between Likud and Blue & White.
"The fact that the proposal [to postpone the final date for a state budget this year] passed in the Knesset yesterday is a hopeful sign," he said. "We are finally seeing signs of compromise; of course elections at such a time would be disastrous."
Cohen was asked to comment on a statement he made that was critical of MK Alex Kushnir, and said, "My words were mistaken, and I had no intention to insult those who have made aliyah from the former Soviet Union. I truly wish to apologize for the manner in which my words were taken. My comment was directed at Kushnir alone, who does not cease to make anti-Semitic statements against the haredi public."