Knesset to vote on Golan referendum

While Israel continues to hold indirect negotiations with Syria through Turkish mediation, lawmakers have taken another step to make ceding the Golan Heights much more difficult.

A joint committee comprised of representatives from the Knesset's House Committee and Knesset's Constitution, Law and Justice Committee approved Wednesday a motion calling for a referendum to be held in Israel should the government have to make any decision pertaining to territorial concessions be brought before the Knesset plenum for approval.

According to the bill proposal, which the plenum is expected to vote on as early as next week, Israel would only be able to withdraw from any given territory with the explicit approval of the general public.

First the government, after having voted on the matter itself, would be required to bring it before the Knesset. If approved there – there would then be a 180-day window to hold a referendum.

Only a majority of 80 or more MKs would render the need for a referendum redundant.

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert initially opposed the motion but ended up losing to his coalition chairman and bill author – former MK Avigdor Itzhaky. Now, with the proposal enjoying the support of a clear majority, Olmert seems to have conceded the fight and will allow Kadima MKs to vote as they see fit.

The Arab parties and Meretz objected to the motion.

MK Zahava Gal-On said such a referendum would harm the Knesset's standing as the body charged with making these decisions.

MK Talab El-Sana (United Arab List – Ta'al) said the motion constitutes a vote of no-confidence in the Knesset's ability to make decisions.