"The way things look at present time, we will support the motion for the dissolution of the Knesset on the June 25th preliminary vote," said Labor party chairman, Defense Minister Ehud Barak, on Thursday morning at a Labor party meeting.

"We would prefer to see stability, but if the reality necessitates it then there is nothing to fear by going to elections," he said.

Regarding the corruption probe against Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Barak said that Labor's position has already been made clear. "This issue bears professional and moral implications. The decision lies with the prime minister. We prefer a stable government. If a government we approve of can be established, then we will support it." 

As for the current situation in the Gaza Strip, the defense minister said it was "our responsibility to bring peace to Sderot and Ashkelon. The IDF is strong and ready to receive the command. I know that our chief duty must be to examine all possible options to get to the result without having to mobilize the IDF.

"However, we do have a responsibility to restore peace and security."