Shas party leader Aryeh Deri announces he is likely to step down as Minister of the Economy. Deri made the announcement on Channel 2�s Meet the Press program on motzei Shabbos parshas Lech Lecha. He added that if his plan for the government�s natural gas resources is not approved, he will submit his resignation.

The question remains is what Deri�s next stop will be. There is a rumor that he will switch cabinet ministries with Minister of the Interior Silvan Shalom. Another rumor states that a new office will be tailored for Deri, to better permit him to assist the �transparent� citizens as he promised during elections, referring to the nation�s poor.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)