Livni Narrowly Wins Israeli Election, Eyes Coalition Government
Article Title:
Livni Narrowly Wins Israeli Election, Eyes Coalition Government
News Source: Public Broadcasting Station website
Link: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/middle_east/july-dec08/israelelection_09-18.html
Summary:
In a close Israeli election for prime minister, on September 17th, 2008, the moderate candidate, Lizna, came out victorious. Lizna has 42 days to set up a coalition government before the President, Shimon Peres, is able to appoint a new potential prime minister to set up the coalition government. She is expected to complete her task in the 42 days. She has been quoted in saying that she is interested in making peace with Palestine even if it means giving up some land for the Palestinians. The leaders of Hamas are skeptical as to the reality and genuineness of her claims.
Analysis:
The unexpected closeness of the race puts into question the amount of support that Livna was once thought to have. Despite this, her main focus should be the ever-daunting task of creating a coalition government in just 42 days. She is eager to make peace in the surrounding countries and territories but possible too eager for many Israelites. The idea of giving up land is disheartening for many Israelites especially those who will be forced to move essentially for their enemies. While many in Israel are eager to make peace, Livna’s contentious claims are destined to cause controversy among the Israelites. Another obstacle for Livna to overcome is the support of Hamas, a leading political organization in part of Palestine. It will indubitably be a delicate process to move Palestinians into Israel, which will take much cooperation from both sides of the conflict. If Hamas is not on board for Livna’s policies then her task of healing Israeli-Palestinian wounds will be much more difficult.
Filed under: Elias, Week of September 19
