Final: Moshe Kahlon informed: taking a break from politics

Three weeks after announcing his retirement from politics, and a few days after the polls had predicted that his run as head of a social party would give him between 13 and 20 seats, Welfare Minister Moshe Kahlon finally announced today (Motzaei Shabbos) his temporary retirement from politics.

"I announced that I won't run for the 19th Knesset and I'm sticking to this decision. Not in vain did you not hear me last week talking about a new party, the reason is that there was no new party. There were inquiries, there were surveys, which contrary to reports – were not ordered by me. There were pressures, and I, on my part, listened to everyone. I had always acted that way, I was never conceited. I listened to everyone, but I have not changed my mind," said Kahlon.

Kahlon went on to explain: "The Likud is home, the political home and social home. In the upcoming elections I will act for the victory of the Netanyahu-led Likud, and take an active part in the 'team of a hundred days', in order to formulate reforms to ease the cost of living, and will change the system of government. My intention is to continue operating outside the government and the Knesset in promoting the social agenda. I would like to take this opportunity to call upon the citizens of Israel to support the Likud under Binyamin Netanyahu in the upcoming elections. "

Kahlon intends to retire in favor of a study program abroad to which he registered.

However, many factors on the political map, especially the Likud, are expected to continue to exert heavy pressure on Kahlon to retract his decision. Likud officials, including the people of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, are fighting for him to run in the Likud - Beiteinu, or at least help the Likud in the elections.

Likud MK Danny Danon said: "Minister Moshe Kahlon is a real Likudnik. His activities on behalf of Israel and the West Bank are part of the DNA of the Likud. His social activities for the poor are part of the DNA of the Likud, and I welcome his remaining in the winning team of the Likud. Having grown in the Likud, believing in Eretz Israel, and believing in the people of Israel, I can say clearly - the home of Moshe Kahlon was and remains the Likud. "

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!