"In Israeli Politics, Being Right Is Good, Being Smart Is Better, But Understanding Shas Is Best."

Thus writes Shmuel Rosner in light of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef's directive that Shas not join Livni's coalition.

Rosner concludes:

With the looming deadline announced by Livni (Sunday will be the day for decision), it now seems that Netanyahu might get what he wished for: an early election with a good chance to become the next Israeli Prime Minister. Chance, but not certainty: Livni and some of her advisers believe she can win. Whoever wins, the next American president might have to wait a while for the opportunity to dive back into the Arab-Israeli diplomatic channel. This will be his way of discovering that nothing is over until Rabbi Ovadia sings.

Read the whole thing.

At this rate, the Israeli election might get to be almost as interesting as the American one.

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