Lieberman: Stop stalling on Tal Law

After being left out of talks for unity government with Kadima, Yisrael Beiteinu chair blasts proposed alternatives for legislation meant to resolve issue of haredim's IDF service

Moran Azulay|Published: 05.09.12 , 11:11

Yisrael Beiteinu Chairman Avigdor Lieberman did not hide his discontent with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to join forces with Kadima Chairman Shaul Mofaz and form a unity government – in his absence.

Lieberman was on an official visit to Germany when the decision on the extended coalition was made.

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During a Yisrael Beiteinu faction meeting held Wednesday morning, Lieberman blasted Netanyahu's statements about finding an alternative to the Tal Law, which will regulate the haredim's service in the IDF.

Lieberman, who suddenly found himself ousted as the prime minister's top Coalition partner, said that so far, the Likud's proposal on the matter was "unacceptable."

Tal Law, which expires on July 31, is one of the key components of the new coalition agreement, but according to Lieberman, the alternatives currently discussed fail to meet Yisrael Beiteinu's demands.

"We expect a serious alternative and we expect to be included in the deliberations – not be presented with a fait accompli," he said.

"I shouldn’t be presented with such important legislation proposals by someone randomly wandering the Knesset halls. I expect the chairman of the coalition to brief me on such matters. If anyone tries to make an underhanded move the party will oppose it as one," he waned.

The foreign minister also expressed hope that the new Coalition will be able to "fully play itself out."

Yisrael Beiteinu released a statement welcoming Kadima into the Coalition and saying that "The ability to reach an agreement that would allow the elections to take place on their original intended date – November 2013 – boosts the government's stability.

"It will allow us to successfully face the national challenges ahead, such as the universal drafting law that will replace Tal Law, changing the system of government and bolstering security and the economy."