Bill: Gov't cannot negotiate J'lem without Knesset support

Ministerial committee ratifies bill stipulating that negotiations on dividing capital can only be held under approval of at least 80 members of Knesset

Moran Azulay|Published: 10.20.13 , 17:49

The Ministerial Committee on Legislation ratified on Sunday a bill that proposes that the government can only hold negotiations regarding dividing Jerusalem if it gains the support of no fewer than 80 MKs.

The bill, endorsed by MK Yaakov Litzman (United Torah Judaism), stipulates that the government must have the parliament's support in order to negotiate the capital's status.

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Following the ministerial committee's approval, MK Litzman said he was "happy with the privilege to guard and protect Jerusalem. (Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu has pledged more than once that he would not negotiate Jerusalem.

"This law anchors that pledge and keeps Jerusalem united. The message of the law is clear – Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, will not be part of any future peace talks."

Yesh Atid ministers opposed the bill and Likud -Beiteinu and Habayit Hayehudi backed it.

Committee Chairwoman Tzipi Livni (Hatnua), said she would appeal the proposal, noting "the bill is not fitting at this time."