Yishai, Lieberman won't sanction outpost removal

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's coalition partners on the Right - Israel Beiteinu and Shas - urged him on Tuesday to return from the peace talks in Annapolis straight to military moves in the Gaza Strip.

Shas Chairman Eli Yishai flanked by a picture of Shas spiritual mentor Rabbi Ovadia Yosef.
Photo: Ariel Jerozolimski

Israel Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman and Shas chairman Eli Yishai said they would remain in the government until actual concessions are implemented, downplaying Olmert's pledges to make painful compromises after negotiations which will begin next month. But they made clear that to keep them satisfied, Olmert must act immediately to stop rocket attacks from the Gaza Strip.

"The goal has to be dismantling Hamas in the Gaza Strip and we are demanding this," Lieberman said. "Abu Mazen [Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas] and [Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salaam] Fayad expect us to act against Hamas in Gaza just as much as the people of Sderot, who deserve to sleep at night."