BREAKING NEWS

Lapid vows to 'change Israel's operating system'

By GIL STERN STERN HOFFMAN

FEBRUARY 16, 2012 18:12

Journalist turned politician Yair Lapid outlined the agenda he intends to promote in his new political career at a conference of businessmen in Eilat on Thursday.

In the first public speech since he entered politics on January 8, Lapid vowed to represent ordinary middle-class secular Israelis in what he described as a fight over the country's future in which the enemies are corrupt politicians, wealthy tycoons, and haredim (ultra-Orthodox).

“Israeliness is under attack but we can still stand up and say this country is ours and we are demanding it back,” Lapid said. “The most terrific people in the world live here. We have no spare country and I don't intend to surrender it. Giving up is not an option.”

Lapid outlined a four-step plan for “changing the operating system of the country.” He called for changing the political system, repealing laws that help the haredim avoid secular studies and army service, fighting corruption, and encouraging economic growth.

Gallant: 'The Iranians failed in their attack'

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF

04/16/2024 07:06 PM

UNHRC calls on Israel to end support of settler attacks on West Bank

By REUTERS

04/16/2024 05:40 PM

Denmark will close down embassy in Iraq

By REUTERS

04/16/2024 05:36 PM

IMF chief economist sees wider Iran conflict pushing up oil prices

By REUTERS

04/16/2024 05:29 PM