Shas was and is an extortionist religious rather than a political party bent on obtaining finances for its pet projects without considering the overall economic situation in Israel and the world. Shas is also opposed to even discussing the issue of Jerusalem in pece talks with the PA, which would automatically end the process.
Since Livni can count on 59 Jewish votes + the Arab votes in the Kneset she might better opt for a narrow coalition. This option alone may change the mind of Shas since there would not be early elections and they may lose her "best offer" for financing.
There is nothing wrong with a left leaning coalition for peace talks, since any agreement has to obtain the blessing of the Kneset and brought to a referendum. The Israeli public is very weary of ceding territory without ironclad security arrangements, but if this can be obtained - the Israeli pulic will choose peace. This might become Livni`s and Barak`s greatest achievement - saving Israel from eternal warfare. |
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