Barak is in, Netanyahu on his way out
Israel, Politics, 5/17/1999

Labor Party candidate Ehud Barak is on his way to becoming the next prime minister of Israel.

Exit polls reported by several sources indicate that Barak has a wide lead over Netanyahu in the votes for the premiership that is bound to change the politics of Israel domestically and internationally.

This election was called for previously by Prime Minister Netanyahu who was losing support in the Knesset, and the issues that took the forefront in the election were about domectic problems and the commitment of Israel to move forward with the peace process, specifically honoring the agreements signed with the Palestinians and Israel's willingness to sign an agreement on withdrawal from the occupied Syrian Golan and south Lebanon, which Barak has expressed readiness to do while Netanyahu did not.

Israel Wire reported today that polls today were to open at 7:00 a.m.

Netanyahu late on Monday conceded defeat while stating that he has a lot still to contribute, but that he will be taking a time out from politics, and resign from the Likud leadership.

Barak very early on Tuesday (Israel time) in his acceptance speech said he hopes "we are at a first step" for establishing a greater Israeli unity. Barak said the burden lies on this generation to move forward with peace, and act accordingly. Barak said "We will not hesitate from taking decisions that will lead to security and peace."

Previous Stories:
  Tear gas and bullets fired on hundreds of Palestinians   (5/15/1999)
  Barak leads Netanyahu in poll   (5/15/1999)
  United Arab list backs Barak   (5/14/1999)
  Conditions of the Israeli Arabs   (5/13/1999)
  The Palestinians and the Israeli elections   (5/6/1999)

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