If it was left to Ze’ev Elkin, who serves as Minister of Jerusalem Affairs, the deadline for deciding about the Jerusalem elections would have expired yesterday. Elkin has stated he wishes to run as the Likud party candidate, but he will not announce his candidacy until he officially receives the backing of his party, Likud.

During an even hosted in Jerusalem on Monday morning, 20 Sivan, Mayor Nir Barkat for a first time, openly came out for Ze’ev Elkin. “Minister Ze’ev Elkin is interested in the position. I hope the Prime Minister will permit him to run and then, I will back him”.

Transportation Minister (Likud) Yisrael Katz added, “I hope Ze’ev Elkin will run so I can back him. If he will be a candidate I will support him. He awaits the Prime Minister’s decision. Nir Barkat and I have spoken with the prime minister and asked to permit him to run”.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)