Party officials: Lieberman to quit government

Yisrael Beiteinu members meet to discuss next moves; party sources: We're going to quit, it's a done deal
Attila Somfalvi

Members of the Yisrael Beiteinu party warned Tuesday evening that the faction is about to quit the government. Party officials characterized the decision to quit the Olmert-led coalition as a "done deal." The comments were made following a faction meeting in Jerusalem.

However, Party Chairman Avigdor Lieberman has not yet confirmed the reports. He is expected to convene a press conference Wednesday where he will provide his final decision.

The party is expected to convene Wednesday morning, before the press conference, in order to take the decision. Meanwhile, political sources increasingly believe that the party will indeed bolt the coalition.

Olmert reassures Lieberman

However, Yisrael Beiteinu Knesset Member Israel Hasson said that no decision has been taken yet. "There are serious dilemmas. We need to come up with an agreed upon date for elections."

Earlier, Lieberman met with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and asked for clarifications regarding the government's diplomatic path, particularly with regards to "core issues" pertaining to talks with the Palestinians. The prime minister told Lieberman that he is interested in reaching an agreement with the Palestinians on the basis of the Road Map initiative, and in line with Israel's security needs.

Olmert told Lieberman that Israel will not be compromising on its security needs and that no progress will be made as long as the Palestinians fail to meet their obligations with regards to security issues.