Minister of Welfare and Social Services Isaac Herzog threatened Monday to act to remove the Labor Party from the government, if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doesnot initiate a "substantial peace process."
Herzog spoke during a Labor conventionof retired government employees in Jerusalem, adding that "if this process proves to be just another stalling attempt, I will be the first to lead a discussion within the Labor Party about the need to retire from the coalition. At this point I am still giving a true chance to the process."
The minister called on Labor members and the centrist-leftist bloc to do some soul-searching, and back Netanyahu's plan: "The Labor Party cannot be the paralyzing element in the peace process. Our responsibility warrants our support.
"Netanyahu faces opposition from his own camp, and those who object entering real peace talks. In this situation, it will be ridiculous for us to act as the main restraining force."
Herzog criticized Opposition Leader Tzipi Livni andKadima party, saying "it is expected of Kadima to act by supporting the process, and not bury their heads in the sand. As Opposition leader, she carries this responsibility, and so do the 'rebels' in the Labor party."
'Ignoring Goldstone Report was a mistake'
Herzog also talked about the fury over the Goldstone report, which accused Israel of war crimes during Operation Cast Lead in Gaza, criticizing the government's decision not to cooperate with the committee.
"The report represents the double standard toward Israel. It is a superficial report, filled with lies, but a distinction should still be made between its conclusions and the wrongful process of decision making, which allowed Israel's international image to be damaged yet again.
"In order to deal with the international legal arena, using the best powers and minds," Herzog proposed "establishing a special authority", headed by Justice Aharon Barak, who "has an established reputation and standing in the international legal world."