Weekly Commentary: Not the time for an expanded ruling coalition

Aaron Lerner Date: 7
September, 2006

"If we have to choose between a foolish [Israeli] prime minister and another
who is strong and capable, we prefer that the fool remain"
Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah
As-Safir (Lebanon)5 September 2006

As Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's team works feverishly to keep their boss in
power, there are indications that some MKs are toying with the possibility
of trading their seats among the ranks of the opposition for ministerial
portfolios.

Most insist that such a move would be conditioned on the receipt of
assurances from Mr. Olmert regarding foreign policy during the remainder of
the term.

But this would be a hollow promise.

In the best of times, Israeli foreign policy was discussed at the cabinet
level in the broadest of strokes, with most members clueless about
diplomatic initiatives until they are leaked to the press. Add to this that
with VPM Shimon Peres on board even Prime Minister Olmert could be genuinely
clueless of diplomatic initiatives that his VPM is patiently working on.

Before the Sharon era, parties joining a questionable coalition could at
least argue that their presence serves to prevent objectionable and
dangerous initiatives from getting cabinet approval. But Ariel Sharon, with
the backing of the court, demonstrated that the prime minister can block
ministers from voting against an initiative simply by dismissing them right
before the crucial vote.

Joining the coalition today won't stop Olmert from pursuing dangerous
initiatives. If anything an expanded coalition only gives him more time to
work on dangerous policy surprises.

Dr. Aaron Lerner, Director IMRA (Independent Media Review & Analysis)
(Mail POB 982 Kfar Sava)
Tel 972-9-7604719/Fax 972-3-7255730
INTERNET ADDRESS: imra@netvision.net.il
Website: http://www.imra.org.il