Religious portfolio is sticking point in coalition talks

In addition, the Agriculture portfolio will be given to Bayit Yehudi’s Uri Ariel, who will leave the Construction Ministry, and Ayelet Shaked will become Minister of Culture and Sports. Bennett also asked to head the Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee in the Knesset and a commitment to pass two significant bills to limit the power of the Supreme Court.

But despite the agreements, knowledgeable sources said the Religious portfolio was still in debate. Likud decided to hand it over to the ultra-Orthodox Shas, but Bayit Yehudi strenuously objects.

There is further disagreement regarding Bayit Yehudi’s demand that Netanyahu promise not to freeze construction in the West Bank and Jerusalem and to transfer billions of shekels to the Education Ministry – a budget Bennett seeks to use for changes in the education system. “He’s not going to join the Education Ministry to deal with deficits,” said a source in the party. “If there is no budget to develop the ministry, it’s better to pass on it.”

Regarding Shas, a gulf remains between the negotiation teams. Party chief Aryeh Deri is demanding 0% VAT on basic food products, like some fruits and vegetables, but Likud has yet to agree to this. Furthermore, the former Interior Minister has not announced which portfolio he’d like to receive, thus holding up an agreement.

 

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