Yair Golan Sets Conditions for Partnership with Haredim; Liberman Responds

In depth

Democrats leader Yair Golan expressed willingness to partner with the Haredi public in a change government. He said such a partnership would require drafting Haredim, integration into employment, and equality in the economic and security burden. Golan added that he is interested in a real partnership and is not looking to punish the Haredim.

Golan said that whoever wants a partnership with him would have to meet him in Ramat Gan, not in Bnei Brak. He stressed that he has no intention of giving a blank check, and that real partnership requires mutual responsibility. According to him, the demands also include expanding the integration of Haredim into the job market.

Golan's announcement came against the backdrop of contacts to form a government without Netanyahu, and of remarks by Avigdor Liberman on the draft law. Liberman denied reports of secret contacts with the Haredim and clarified that any draft law must pass the test of the High Court of Justice. Golan attacked Liberman and wrote that if he wants a government that will not draft Haredim, he is welcome to form a government with Netanyahu.