Israel’s defense minister quits Labour Party

Author: 
Associated Press
Publication Date: 
Mon, 2011-01-17 17:00

The decision throws Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition into turmoil, though it is not enough to rob him of his parliamentary majority.
Barak, who is the defense minister, is expected to remain in the coalition with four other Labor breakaways. It’s not clear whether Labor’s eight remaining lawmakers will support the government.
Several leading Labor members have criticized Barak recently for staying in the government at a time when peace efforts are stalled. Labor is the most dovish faction in an otherwise hard-line government.
A statement announcing the decision by Barak and four followers was obtained by The Associated Press. A formal announcement was expected later Monday.

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