Will Lieberman be leaving government?

Minister close to PM says foreign minister's conduct during peace talks signals departure from coalition

Attila Somfalvi|Published: 10.03.10 , 08:19

A minister close to the prime minister said Saturday night that Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's recent conduct is a sign he may be leaving the government soon. In the meantime, rumors have been circulating on the possible joining of Kadima.

"Lieberman's behavior is problematic," the minister said, referring to the foreign minister's UN speech and the disbelief he has expressed in peace talks with the Palestinians.

"He is almost transparent, and his behavior hints that he is preparing his exit from the government despite his declarations that he will remain until the end."

The minister added, "Lieberman claimed he would not get involved in the negotiations, but what he has done was the most blatant intervention possible, and he has caused damage too. It's unclear how he will be able to deal with an additional freeze, and whether he will be able to remain in the government."

Meanwhile the main Opposition party, Kadima, is officially claiming that no negotiations are taking place with the coalition, but some of its members are waiting to see whether its structure changes. "If Lieberman leaves the government, we will have no choice but to join," one member said.