Olmert urges Netanyahu 'to form government fast'
At start of weekly cabinet meeting, prime minister congratulates Likud chairman on being tasked with forming new government, calls on all officials involved in coalition negotiations 'to do it quickly and efficiently'
Speaking at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting, Olmert made it clear that "until the formation of a new government, the current Israeli government will continue to run the State's affairs without relinquishing one gram of responsibility."
The prime minister-designate is expected to meet Sunday afternoon with Kadima Chairwoman Tzipi Livni in order to try and convince her to join his government as a senior partner which will be able to influence its basic guidelines and policy.
Livni has reiterated that she plans to take her party to the opposition, but senior Kadima members have begun to voice other opinions recently.
In the Likud there are also those who believe Netanyahu is making a mistake in his generous offers to Livni. Shas and Yisrael Beiteinu officials have called on both parties to join forces in a broad national unity government led by Netanyahu.
'Sorry for TV show that offended Vatican'
During the cabinet meeting, Olmert said he he felt "regret, sorrow and disapproval" for a comedy show that mocked Christian theology and offended the Vatican.
Government spokesman Mark Regev said Olmert told ministers that the comedy segment was "in stark contrast" to good relations between Israel and Christians worldwide.
Broadcast recently on a late-night show on the private Channel 10 TV station, the segment mocked the belief that Mary was a virgin and that Jesus walked on water.
The skit was a sarcastic response to the Vatican's rehabilitation of a Catholic bishop who denied the Holocaust took place. The host later apologized for causing offense.
The Vatican issued a statement Friday calling the segment a "vulgar and offensive act of intolerance."
The Associated Press contributed to this report
