Mofaz takes to Facebook to defend unity deal

“There are moments when leadership makes decisions even if they are apparently not popular,” Kadima leader Shaul Mofaz wrote on his Facebook page Thursday, offering responses to critics deriding him for joining a national unity government with the Likud.

“I am not indifferent to the profound criticisms that have been raised on this [web] page and in the media over the last few days, but an historic opportunity was created here to bring forth substantial developments for the good of the Israeli public. In my world view, it would have been irresponsible of me to miss this opportunity,” wrote Mofaz. “The responsibility is mine and mine alone,” he said, noting that the results of the move will show whether or not he was right, and that he would stand by the outcomes.

Earlier this week, in a dramatic shift that took the entire Israeli political establishment by surprise, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Kadima leader Mofaz formed a unity government and canceled early elections, minutes before the second and third votes in which the Knesset was set to vote for dissolution, leading to early elections.

Mofaz and Netanyahu have promised new legislation on military service for Haredim and on electoral reforms.

In wake of the deal, Kadima MK Haim Ramon is leaving the party and MK Shlomo Molla may also leave, Channel 2 reported Wednesday night.

Ilan Ben Zion contributed to this report.