Tel-Chai Nation

From Israel Insider:

MK Avigdor Lieberman, Chairman of Israel Beitenu, a center-right party with 11 mandates, announced his resignation as Minister of Strategic Affairs and the departure of his party from the government of Ehud Olmert, leaving behind a coalition of 67. The religious Shas party may follow him out, creating a potential condition of a minority government without minimal stability.

Lieberman explained that the reason for his departure was the government's violation of his "red lines" including negotiations on "core issues" with the Palestinians. In his press conference, he rejected the concept of "land for peace" and asserted that the morning after any withdrawal there would be an uprising of Israeli Arabs demanding autonomy and demands for further concessions.

Now the question remains: will Shas follow suit? They may have to, as Olmert's red-line crossings could put them in a very awkward position.

Labels: Israel