Netanyahu: Government here to stay
Prime minister expresses his appreciation for ministers who resigned from his cabinet following Labor split, says enjoyed working with them. 'The entire world knows, as do the Palestinians, that peace talks must be held with this government'
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday expressed his appreciation for the Labor ministers who resigned from his government following Defense Minister Ehud Barak's departure from the Labor Party.
Netanyahu, whose associates were involved in Barak's plan, said during a Likud faction meeting that "despite the differences of opinion, I must say that I enjoyed the period we worked together.
"We will continue working in this spirit in the coming years for the sake of the State of Israel, and I am sure we will join forces and do it in the best way possible for Israel's citizens."
Despite the upcoming changes in his government, the prime minister added that "the entire world knows, as do the Palestinians, that this government is here to stay for the coming years, and that peace negotiations must be held with this government. We want to advance the talks based on our interests for security and peace."
The move to split the Labor Party was launched about two weeks ago and gained momentum last week. Barak initiated the move and updated the prime minister. Netanyahu's aide, Natan Eshel, helped Barak execute his plan.
A source close to Netanyahu said that "the departure will create an island of stability, a small and consolidated group within the coalition", adding that it would help advance the peace process.
"We've had enough of resignation threats. Every time someone gives an interview, threatens to quit and weakens us against the partner on the other side."
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