Livini, Shas, Israel Fiddles As Jerusalem Burns
(One Jerusalem)

Remember the story of the Roman Emperor Nero playing the fiddle as Rome burned.We are repeatedly reminded of this scene as we watch Tzipi Livini try to negotiate a new Israeli government into existence. Livini has a little more than a week to go before she reaches her deadline. But a friend pointed out that Livini has another earlier deadline to contend with.On Monday, the Kenneset reconvenes and she does not want Olmert to open the session. She wants to be the new Prime Minister by that time.But standing in her way is a stubborn Shas Party. Livini/Kadima have been negotiating the conditions for Shas entering their coalition and forming a new government. A few days ago, the negotiations seemed to break off. Shas claimed it was over Livni's refusal to publicly announce that she would take Jerusalem off the table in talks with the Palestinians.In fact, the negotiations broke off over Livini and Shas failing to come to terms on how much money will be allocated to "child allowances" a program that is the foundation of Shas's political structure.If anyone doubts that the future of Israel's government has come down to politicians wrangling over money we recommend reading this article. A senior Shas representative declares that money is at the heart of the talks with Livini.Not the future of Jerusalem. Not the freedom of Shalit. Not the need for a united front against Iran. There are many who believe that Shas should be in the forefront of leading the campaign for new General elections so that the Israeli people can determine their leaders during these very dangerous times. Update: Livni has given Shas until Sunday to sign a deal of she will go to elections. As we said she does not want Olmert opening the Monday Kenneset session.