Housing and Construction Minister Ze'ev Elkin, the man considered to be the brains behind the coalition's establishment, is on the hunt for his next position.
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Israel Hayom has learned that Elkin has attempted to leave the coalition and secure an appointment as Jewish Agency chair.
Sources who spoke to Elkin said he "understands it's over."
Elkin has been working toward this end over the last two weeks. He has spoken about it with Foreign Minister and Prime Minister-designate Naftali Bennett, Justice Minister Gideon Sa'ar, and others. Elkin's departure should have initiated a round of political appointments that would have seen another New Hope member take on the Housing and Construction Ministry, the Jerusalem Affairs Ministry go to Elazar Stern of Blue and White, and the Intelligence portfolio go to Eli Avidar of Yisrael Beytenu. However, the government has lost its majority in the Knesset and is now incapable of appointing ministers. For proof, see the failed attempt to make Yamina's Matan Kahana religious services minister.
Although they may try to fight it, coalition members know the end is near. Yet any departure, even if only that of senior advisers at the Prime Minister's Office, results in headlines and a sense of dissolution. The departure of Elkin, a man who succeeded in leading a series of political moves over the last year, is a dramatic statement about his coalition partners' plans to continue to maintain the government.
In a statement, Elkin said: Around a month and a half ago, the Prime Minister [Naftali Bennett] and the Prime Minister-designate [Yair Lapid] put out feelers to see whether I would be willing to weigh being a candidate for a role in the government. I replied that I like my place in the political system. I think I have a lot to contribute. On the other hand, I value the Jewish Agency and think it's an important body from a nationalist perspective in which for many years I filled a senior position. And therefore, should a serious offer come around, I would consult with Gideon Sa'ar and decide."
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