Netanyahu Says Government Will Seek Peace With Palestinians

Mr. Netanyahu said in Jerusalem Wednesday that his government will be a partner for peace, security, and the rapid development of the Palestinian economy. His comments come one day after Israel's moderate Labor party voted to join his coalition government.

Labor party official Etan Cabel said 57 percent of nearly 1,200 delegates voted to endorse Labor leader Ehud Barak's plan to join a government led by Mr. Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party.

Labor's support gives Mr. Netanyahu a ruling majority of 66 seats in the 120-member parliament. Analysts in Israel say the coalition government will appear more broad and moderate with Labor on board.

Before the vote, many Labor lawmakers said they opposed joining Mr. Netanyahu's coalition, which will be dominated by right-wing parties that oppose giving many concessions to the Palestinians.

In addition to Mr. Netanyahu's Likud party, the ultra-nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party and the Orthodox Jewish Shas party would be part of the coalition.

Under the pact reached Tuesday by Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Barak, Mr. Barak will retain his post as defense minister.

Mr. Netanyahu was tasked with forming a new government following elections last month.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.

By VOA News