Shalit still in captivity
Photo: Noam Rotem
Minister slammed for refusing Shalit post
MK Ezra criticizes Minister Meridor for rejecting Bibi's offer to serve as Shalit negotiator
Minister Dan Meridor faced harsh criticism at the Knesset Tuesday over his refusal to take up the post of chief negotiator in the Gilad Shalit case.
During a Knesset discussion Tuesday dedicated to the abducted soldier, Knesset Member Gideon Ezra (Kadima) said "we can't have a situation whereby a government minister does not agree to undertake such role…this is a question mark but I don't think we'll be getting an answer for it."
However, speaking on behalf of PM Netanyahu, Minister Gilad Erdan asked that disagreements be cast aside.
"The issue is very important and is a top priority for Netanyahu…I can pledge on behalf of the prime minister that this government will not spare any effort in order to bring Gilad Back home," Erdan said. "I'm certain and hopeful that the Knesset will continue to raise this issue and I expect us to soon have much more detailed answers for the Knesset."
During the discussion, Knesset Member Ilan Gilon resorted to an unusual form of protest by observing a moment of silence at the Knesset podium. Before his protest, MK Gilon said: "We need to take Hamas' list and add another 20 names in a box tied with a ribbon, as a bonus, and set a date for returning the boy."
Meanwhile, MK Shaul Mofaz expressed his regret over Shalit's ongoing captivity, but stressed that great efforts have been made in order to secure the soldier's release.
"I am convinced that up until this moment, the utmost efforts have been undertaken, both openly and secretly, in order to bring Gilad back home," he said.
