Jerusalem:The Knesset Arrangements Committee has recommended the appointment of Avigdor Lieberman as chairman of the interim Foreign Affairs and Security Committee and Liran Abisher Ben-Horin as chairwoman of the interim Finance Committee. The decision received backing from the majority of the center-left camp and Arab parties, despite opposition from right-wing representatives who raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
According to Maan News Agency, the recommendations emerged during a tumultuous meeting of the organizing committee, which followed the Knesset General Assembly's approval of its formation. The establishment of the Finance and Foreign Affairs and Security committees was supported by 13 members against 9 in opposition. These temporary committees will each have 17 members, with the recommendations receiving support from center-left blocs such as "Yeshar," "Together," "Democrats," and "Yisrael Beiteinu," alongside Arab parties including the United Arab List and the Joint List.
The nomination of Ben-Horin, from the "Together" party, to head the Finance Committee sparked debate, with right-wing members voicing concerns about a conflict of interest. Ben-Horin addressed these objections by stating that while governmental conflict of interest rules do not apply to the Knesset, she would adhere to strict standards personally. She expressed willingness to delegate matters she could not manage due to potential conflicts.
Roy Folkman, chairman of the organizing committee from the "Yeshar" party, urged members to conduct discussions with respect and responsibility. He emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting differing opinions, highlighting the need for polite and respectful behavior within the Knesset.
Earlier in the day, the Knesset General Assembly approved the formation of the organizing committee, which includes 22 members, reflecting the balance of power in the 26th Knesset. The committee's composition includes members from various parties such as "Yeshar," Likud, "Together," the Joint List, "Democrats," the United Arab List, Yisrael Beiteinu, Shas, United Torah Judaism, "Religious Zionism," and Otzma Yehudit.
The formation of these temporary committees enables parliamentary oversight of the state budget and security establishment during the ongoing conflict, while negotiations for a government led by Gadi Eisenkot continue.