One of the vocal critics of Shas leader Aryeh Deri is former party leader Eli Yishai. Yishai told Channel 10 News that Deri’s decision to leave the Ministry of the Economy due to his opposition to the prime minister’s natural gas plan is a copout, tantamount to running away from one’s responsibilities. Yishai explained that Deri told the nation he is concerned for the future of the “transparent citizens”, the poor, but instead of blocking the plan from passing, it appears he cut a deal to protect himself and he is stepping down to permit another sign the deal into law.

There are already rumors that Deri may change posts with Interior Minister Silvan Shalom, or that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu may tailor a new ministry for him.

Shas faction members in Knesset convened in the Economy Ministry on Monday 13 Cheshvan at 13:00, at which time they discussed Deri’s planned departure from the ministry.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)