Is a solution to the coalition crisis in the works? Arutz-7's Knesset correspondent Haggai Seri reports that Labor party seniors have been toiling since last night to formulate the compromise solution that will enable Labor to remain in the government. Prime Minister Sharon is also interested in keeping the government whole after reaching the conclusion that a narrow right-wing government is not realistic at this time. The compromise being worked on involves changes to the budget between tomorrow's first-reading vote and the final vote later on. Political analysts give the compromise little chance of success, however. The budget is expected to pass tomorrow in any event.
In the meanwhile, Prime Minister Sharon has asked former IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. (res.) Sha'ul Mofaz to replace Ben-Eliezer as Defense Minister, if in fact Labor should leave the coalition. Mofaz is apparently willing, although some analysts are wary of a Defense Minister who left his post as top army general only eleven weeks ago.
In the meanwhile, Prime Minister Sharon has asked former IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. (res.) Sha'ul Mofaz to replace Ben-Eliezer as Defense Minister, if in fact Labor should leave the coalition. Mofaz is apparently willing, although some analysts are wary of a Defense Minister who left his post as top army general only eleven weeks ago.