Deputy FM becomes first coalition member to oppose pardon for Netanyahu, says it’s a distraction

Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel becomes the first government and coalition member to publicly oppose the notion of a presidential pardon for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at this time.

“Is it right to give a pardon in the situation we are in? I don’t think so,” Haskel tells Jerusalem Radio, adding that this is a “media trick aimed at trying to divert attention from the important things.”

She then clarifies that the latter part means the controversial legislation to regulate ultra-Orthodox enlistment to the IDF and formalize widespread draft exemptions — which is opposed by some 10 coalition and cabinet members, including Haskel. In today’s interview, she says the bill “could endanger Israel’s security.”

“I also don’t think Netanyahu wants the pardon,” she adds, noting that the media and opposition, “like sheep, are putting this issue in the headlines instead of talking about the thing that is going to determine the state’s future, which is the enlistment law.”