Shas party leader Aryeh Deri has resigned from the Knesset. Since the Knesset is already not in session, it is questioned whether he is really resigning or if this is a political move following the tapes revealed by Channel 2 news. In the tape, the late spiritual leader and Shas founder, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef called Deri „wicked” for having received bribes. After offering his letter to the Rabbis of Shas, they refused to accept his resignation. Deri explained that after the public had been exposed to the derogatory tape, he could not continue. A group of Shas supporters set up a tent outside his home to encourage him to return to the Knesset.

All Shas Knesset members have announced that they will also leave the Knesset following Deri.
Upon leaving the Knesset, when the press requested a response from Deri, he said, „I have nothing to add. Please leave me alone. Enough.”
In an exclusive interview with Channel 2 news, Deri’s wife Yaffa commented on his leaving the Knesset. As far as I know, he has indeed resigned.” When asked how Shas will manage without him as they did while he was in jail, she responded, „Don’t forget that Rabbi Ovadia Yosef was there to lead them. Shas is like his child. He will make sure his child lives.”
The health appropriations committee announced its recommendations for additions to the list of medicines and technology to be included in the health basket. The list includes 73 medicines and technologies at a cost of 324 million shekels. 1/3 of the additional budget will be devoted to medicines to treat Hepatitis C. There are also medicines to prevent Pertussis in pregnant women and for skin cancer as well as devices to help those who cannot communicate in the usual methods. Many who were left out of the basket came to the deliberations to protest.
Professor Arnon Afek, Director General of the Health Ministry likened the work of the committee to Solomon’s dilemma. „I must ask forgiveness from those we were not able to help this year. I believe that the basket is comprehensive and excellent.”
Medicine for diabetes and dental care for children above the age of 12 were among the treatments not included this year.

The Justice Ministry has announced that it will file indictments against 5 people and a corporation for negligent manslaughter in the death of Lt. Hila Bezalel. Bezalel died 2 1/2 years ago when a scaffold fell on her during a rehearsal for the annual Memorial Day ceremony on Mt. Herzl. The indictments are against those who erected the lighting structure which collapsed as well as those in charge of safety for the event.
In continuation of the crisis of Israel’s Channel 10, workers are protesting opposite government offices in Tel Aviv against the planned closure. If there is no intervention, Channel 10 is scheduled to cease broadcasting on Wednesday.