Economy Minister Nir Barkat of the Likud is considering voting against the state budget. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatens that if he does act this way, he will be fired from his position, reported 12 News' political commentator, Amit Segal.
As a reminder, last Monday, hours before the government voted on the budget, Barkat informed the Prime Minister's office that he planned to vote against it. Because of this he was summoned to a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite this, he objected on the grounds that the budget does not provide an answer to the economic needs of the State of Israel.
As a reminder, the amended state budget for 2023 has caused a stir in recent days following Minister Benny Gantz's demand to make changes to the coalition funds. Gantz sent a letter to Netanyahu in which he warned that if no changes were made to the coalition funds, his faction would vote against the budget and consider continuing its path in the government.
"We are facing tremendous economic and social challenges ahead of us as well, and a deficit that is expected to grow significantly and affect the economy. At this time, any free money must go to the needs of the war and to them only," Gantz said.
"I repeat my demand, to divert all possible coalition resources and funds that have not yet been produced for the fiscal year 2023 and accordingly also for 2024, immediately for the needs of the war and its consequences. If the meeting takes place and the budget remains intact, the National Unity faction will vote against the proposed budget, and will consider its next steps."
