Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics.&nbsp;Despite rain, the protesters continued the rally as they decried a "government of shame" and appealed to people to, "bring down the dictator", reported AFP.&nbsp; The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-what-netanyahus-comeback-in-israel-means-for-india-531268">Netanyahu re-election: How Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' in India-Israel ties</a>

"The situation is worrying and scary," said 22-year-old Aya Tal, who was part of the protest and is employed in the high-tech industry. "They want to take away our rights... We must unite,” she added.&nbsp;

As per reports in local media, rallies were also held outside the residences of the president and the prime minister, in Jerusalem and the city of Haifa.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, who has now become the longest-serving prime minister of Israel, came to power after entering into a coalition with ultra-Orthodox and extreme-right Jewish parties, with some of the&nbsp;members now heading important ministries.&nbsp;

Protesters demanded that Netanyahu step down from his position as the latter continues to fight charges of corruption in court.&nbsp;

"Bibi (Netanyahu) doesn't want a democracy, we don't need fascists in the Knesset," stated one sign raised at the protests held in Tel Aviv, as they referred to the Israeli parliament.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government

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The streets around Habima Square in Tel Aviv were filled with crowds chanting "democracy, democracy".

Currently, in Israel, the authority of repealing laws, which are considered discriminatory, lies with the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Former Supreme Court judge Ayala Procaccia said that the people of Israel "will not accept... the destruction of the basic values of our system." "We are at a fateful moment for the future of Israel," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics.

Thousands of citizens staged a protest in Israel's capital Tel Aviv against the hard-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which is being called a threat to Israeli democracy by critics. Despite rain, the protesters continued the rally as they decried a "government of shame" and appealed to people to, "bring down the dictator", reported AFP. The Israeli media reported that the rally saw the participation of 80,000 people, quoting police sources. This is the biggest protest since the new government of Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late December. ALSO READ| Netanyahu re-election: How Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' in India-Israel ties "The situation is worrying and scary," said 22-year-old Aya Tal, who was part of the protest and is employed in the high-tech industry. "They want to take away our rights... We must unite,” she added. As per reports in local media, rallies were also held outside the residences of the president and the prime minister, in Jerusalem and the city of Haifa. Netanyahu, who has now become the longest-serving prime minister of Israel, came to power after entering into a coalition with ultra-Orthodox and extreme-right Jewish parties, with some of the members now heading important ministries. Protesters demanded that Netanyahu step down from his position as the latter continues to fight charges of corruption in court. "Bibi (Netanyahu) doesn't want a democracy, we don't need fascists in the Knesset," stated one sign raised at the protests held in Tel Aviv, as they referred to the Israeli parliament. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government The streets around Habima Square in Tel Aviv were filled with crowds chanting "democracy, democracy". Currently, in Israel, the authority of repealing laws, which are considered discriminatory, lies with the Supreme Court. Former Supreme Court judge Ayala Procaccia said that the people of Israel "will not accept... the destruction of the basic values of our system." "We are at a fateful moment for the future of Israel," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu, decry ‘government of shame’

Tens of thousands of Israelis demonstrated in three major cities against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's judicial reform plans. The organisers are accusing him of undermining democratic rule weeks after his reelection.

Israel: People hold protest against proposed judicial reforms

Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led&nbsp;by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes days&nbsp;after his administration’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled his plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system, which opponents and critics say threaten democracy and freedom.&nbsp;

What is the legal reform plan about?

On Wednesday, the country’s justice minister announced the new government’s long-promised overhaul of the judicial system which is also supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Additionally, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, reported Associated Press.&nbsp;

The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it is the feature of the plan which has garnered controversy and it is the Override Clause which would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-government-lays-out-sweeping-court-reform-plan-setting-up-showdown-with-the-judiciary-549524">Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary</a>

Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government. Currently, the Judicial Appointments Committee includes lawmakers, from both the government and the opposition, and judges and representatives from the Israel Bar Association.

Furthermore, given that Israel does not have a written constitution, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remain&nbsp;weak since the ruling government typically holds a majority in the Parliament.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-israels-most-right-wing-coalition-netanyahu-to-form-new-government-545646">WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government</a>

This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Netanyahu government

The Netanyahu government is said to be the most right-wing and religiously conservative in Israel’s over seven-decade history. It recently came under fire after its National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque which drew widespread condemnation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

Additionally, prior to the government’s swearing-in, the coalition agreements called for legislation that would allow service providers to refuse service on the grounds of religious beliefs which many say would be legalising discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and other targeted sections in Israel.&nbsp;

This comes after the incumbent PM Netanyahu won the elections in November and took office last month with his right-wing allies who now hold key ministerial positions in the Israeli government.&nbsp;

What happened at the protests?

The protest was reportedly led by some lawmakers from Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where the local media report citing organisers said that over 10,000 protesters gathered for the rally in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square. According to media reports, protesters waved Israel and LGBTQ+ pride flags and some were seen with a Palestinian flag with placards that read, “The settler government is against me” and “Democracy in danger” and even a banner that read “crime minister”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-most-right-wing-coalition-and-its-many-challenges-549980">Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges</a> 
 
The demonstrators affiliated with&nbsp;Standing Together group and other organisations marched toward the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and held a rally there where leaders gave speeches while others carried out a torchlight march through the city streets, reported the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, others also called for peace and co-existence between Jews and Arab residents of the country.&nbsp;

Several prominent activist groups in the country even warned the government that these reforms would not be passed without unprecedented civil resistance. “This evening, friends, we have built a new democratic camp,” said the CEOs of an NGO, Breaking the Silence, Yael Lotan and Avner Gvaryahu, addressing the protestors on Saturday.&nbsp;

They added, “One that includes Jews and Arabs, men and women, straight people and LGBTQ people, secular and religious, united against one evil government and for the sake of a better future in this place,” reported the local media.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-israeli-government-approve-steps-to-penalise-palestinians-550249">New Israeli government approve steps to penalise Palestinians</a>

“Extremists and dangerous actors in the newly established government are already planning how to hurt all of us,” said an activist from NGO Standing Together, reported by the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp; 
 
They added, “How to deepen racial discrimination against Arab citizens, how to cut social budgets, how to discriminate based on gender. We won’t sit home and hold hands and give in to despair and frustration. Where there is struggle, there is also hope. And we will go out and struggle for our home.”

Meanwhile, one of the activist groups called the Black Flag movement which reportedly organised Saturday’s protests called this reform plan a “coup d’état” which will encounter a nation of Israel which is “determined to guard our democracy and will fail.” The group has also vowed to continue the protests next Saturday and said, “Today we are starting the most important journey: A preventative strike against dictatorship.” 
&nbsp;

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מפגינים רבים החלו להאסף ברחבת הבימה בתל אביב בהפגנה מגד הרפורמה להחלשת מערכת המשפט וצעדי הממשלה. כיאה לאופוזיציה המפוצלת מהכיכר יצאו שתי צעדות. אחת בהובלת ״עומדים ביחד״ לכיוון המוזיאון ושניה בהובלת ארגונים ואנשים אחרים שתצא בהמשך. בכיכר נמצאים כבר כמה אלפים. עדכונים יהיו כאן &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/h05ppvKw6L">pic.twitter.com/h05ppvKw6L</a>
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The protests on January 7&nbsp;were followed by a rally held by activists from the Darkenu civil society movement, outside Levin’s house on Friday. The group reportedly claims that the High Court served as a “flak jacket” to protect Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers from being brought to the International Criminal Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-slams-latest-un-vote-on-palestine-as-moral-decay-of-world-body-548253">Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body</a>

“The Override Clause and Levin’s moves to weaken the justice system would hurt IDF soldiers, and hurting our soldiers is a red line,” said the group’s CEO and former member of Knesset Rachel Azaria, reported the Jerusalem Post.&nbsp;

The protests on Saturday witnessed the attendance of a number of MKs including Merav Michaeli and Gilad Kariv from the opposition Labor party, Aymen Odeh, chair of the predominantly Arab Hadash-Ta’al alliance, and former vice PM Tzipi Livni who expressed their support for the protesters.&nbsp;

“What energies in the square! Together with thousands of amazing demonstrators we went out to demonstrate and shout in a clear voice - our country cannot be destroyed!” said the Labour party chairperson, Michaeli on Twitter. She added, “We will continue to fight for our democracy.”&nbsp;

Israeli former supreme court president’s grim warning

Former Supreme Court president, Aharon Barak, who is also Israel’s most revered jurist, in multiple TV interviews on Saturday urged the justice minister to review these sweeping reforms. According to a report by Times of Israel, in a grim warning, he said that the proposed plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system will give all the power to the PM, leave citizens with no defence against violation of any and all of their rights, and mark the beginning of the end of the modern state of Israel as we know it.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unsc-stresses-on-al-aqsa-status-quo-israel-palestine-envoy-trade-barbs-at-un-meet-549892">UNSC stresses on Al-Aqsa status quo; Israel, Palestine envoy trade barbs at UN meet</a>

“If putting me to death would put an end to this drastic shake-up…I’d be prepared to go before a firing squad,” he said in the context of his stance and verdicts as a justice from between 1978 and 2006 and the SC president for 11 years. Speaking about his time as a justice the 86-year-old said that he tried not to be overly activist nor overly conservative while delivering verdicts and took into account Israel’s history, Zionism and the country’s security needs and that he was sorry to be depicted as “the enemy of the people”, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

According to the report, Barak also said that he feels like he is obligated to warn the public about the “grave danger” their rights are in and it would not matter if they are, Jew, Arab, ultra-Orthodox, or not ultra-Orthodox. Israeli democracy will be left with one branch of governance which would be the PM.&nbsp;

He also went on to explain that nobody will be protected from the political majority since the Knesset is powerless against the majority coalition, and Israel has no constitution, Bill of Rights, or even a second House, reported the Times of Israel. It will also affect Israel on an international level, Barak said, noting that the High Court has acted as a legal “Iron Dome” ensuring Israel’s democratic functioning, including in its treatment of the Palestinians.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-new-proposals-give-sweeping-power-to-the-israeli-government-549574">Israel's new proposals give sweeping power to the Israeli government</a>

If the High Court is affected by Levin's plans to weaken it, “our chief of staff and government ministers will immediately be arrested when they travel overseas…The leaders of the country will be put on trial in the International Criminal Court in The Hague,” as per Times of Israel.&nbsp;

What has Levin said about the plans?

Subsequently, even the justice minister was also interviewed on Saturday, where he said that while he respects the former top judge, he “does not understand the essence of democracy.” Levin also dismissed the idea of establishing a committee with Barak to compromise on his proposal and said that he would discuss the plan with key members of the parliament and hope that the final legislation is “as close as possible” to the proposed one, said the media report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christian-graves-vandalised-in-jerusalem-cemetery-549451">Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery, Israeli cops launch probe</a>

He also, in turn, criticised Barak and said he “fundamentally contradicted democracy…all power rests with the judges, and they decide what’s proportionate and reasonable. That’s not democratic.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Thousands of Israeli people took to the streets in Tel Aviv, late Saturday, in protest against the new government’s policies which is now led by the country’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This comes days after his administration’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled his plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system, which opponents and critics say threaten democracy and freedom. What is the legal reform plan about? On Wednesday, the country’s justice minister announced the new government’s long-promised overhaul of the judicial system which is also supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Additionally, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, reported Associated Press. The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it is the feature of the plan which has garnered controversy and it is the Override Clause which would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court. ALSO READ | Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government. Currently, the Judicial Appointments Committee includes lawmakers, from both the government and the opposition, and judges and representatives from the Israel Bar Association. Furthermore, given that Israel does not have a written constitution, the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches of government remain weak since the ruling government typically holds a majority in the Parliament. ALSO WATCH | WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel. Netanyahu government The Netanyahu government is said to be the most right-wing and religiously conservative in Israel’s over seven-decade history. It recently came under fire after its National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque which drew widespread condemnation. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? Additionally, prior to the government’s swearing-in, the coalition agreements called for legislation that would allow service providers to refuse service on the grounds of religious beliefs which many say would be legalising discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and other targeted sections in Israel. This comes after the incumbent PM Netanyahu won the elections in November and took office last month with his right-wing allies who now hold key ministerial positions in the Israeli government. What happened at the protests? The protest was reportedly led by some lawmakers from Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where the local media report citing organisers said that over 10,000 protesters gathered for the rally in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square. According to media reports, protesters waved Israel and LGBTQ+ pride flags and some were seen with a Palestinian flag with placards that read, “The settler government is against me” and “Democracy in danger” and even a banner that read “crime minister”. ALSO WATCH | Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges The demonstrators affiliated with Standing Together group and other organisations marched toward the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and held a rally there where leaders gave speeches while others carried out a torchlight march through the city streets, reported the Times of Israel. Meanwhile, others also called for peace and co-existence between Jews and Arab residents of the country. Several prominent activist groups in the country even warned the government that these reforms would not be passed without unprecedented civil resistance. “This evening, friends, we have built a new democratic camp,” said the CEOs of an NGO, Breaking the Silence, Yael Lotan and Avner Gvaryahu, addressing the protestors on Saturday. They added, “One that includes Jews and Arabs, men and women, straight people and LGBTQ people, secular and religious, united against one evil government and for the sake of a better future in this place,” reported the local media. ALSO WATCH | New Israeli government approve steps to penalise Palestinians “Extremists and dangerous actors in the newly established government are already planning how to hurt all of us,” said an activist from NGO Standing Together, reported by the Jerusalem Post. They added, “How to deepen racial discrimination against Arab citizens, how to cut social budgets, how to discriminate based on gender. We won’t sit home and hold hands and give in to despair and frustration. Where there is struggle, there is also hope. And we will go out and struggle for our home.” Meanwhile, one of the activist groups called the Black Flag movement which reportedly organised Saturday’s protests called this reform plan a “coup d’état” which will encounter a nation of Israel which is “determined to guard our democracy and will fail.” The group has also vowed to continue the protests next Saturday and said, “Today we are starting the most important journey: A preventative strike against dictatorship.” מפגינים רבים החלו להאסף ברחבת הבימה בתל אביב בהפגנה מגד הרפורמה להחלשת מערכת המשפט וצעדי הממשלה. כיאה לאופוזיציה המפוצלת מהכיכר יצאו שתי צעדות. אחת בהובלת ״עומדים ביחד״ לכיוון המוזיאון ושניה בהובלת ארגונים ואנשים אחרים שתצא בהמשך. בכיכר נמצאים כבר כמה אלפים. עדכונים יהיו כאן >> pic.twitter.com/h05ppvKw6L — Bar Peleg (@bar_peleg) January 7, 2023 × The protests on January 7 were followed by a rally held by activists from the Darkenu civil society movement, outside Levin’s house on Friday. The group reportedly claims that the High Court served as a “flak jacket” to protect Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers from being brought to the International Criminal Court. ALSO READ | Israel slams latest UN vote on Palestine as ‘moral decay’ of the multilateral world body “The Override Clause and Levin’s moves to weaken the justice system would hurt IDF soldiers, and hurting our soldiers is a red line,” said the group’s CEO and former member of Knesset Rachel Azaria, reported the Jerusalem Post. The protests on Saturday witnessed the attendance of a number of MKs including Merav Michaeli and Gilad Kariv from the opposition Labor party, Aymen Odeh, chair of the predominantly Arab Hadash-Ta’al alliance, and former vice PM Tzipi Livni who expressed their support for the protesters. “What energies in the square! Together with thousands of amazing demonstrators we went out to demonstrate and shout in a clear voice - our country cannot be destroyed!” said the Labour party chairperson, Michaeli on Twitter. She added, “We will continue to fight for our democracy.” Israeli former supreme court president’s grim warning Former Supreme Court president, Aharon Barak, who is also Israel’s most revered jurist, in multiple TV interviews on Saturday urged the justice minister to review these sweeping reforms. According to a report by Times of Israel, in a grim warning, he said that the proposed plans to overhaul the country’s judicial system will give all the power to the PM, leave citizens with no defence against violation of any and all of their rights, and mark the beginning of the end of the modern state of Israel as we know it. ALSO WATCH | UNSC stresses on Al-Aqsa status quo; Israel, Palestine envoy trade barbs at UN meet “If putting me to death would put an end to this drastic shake-up…I’d be prepared to go before a firing squad,” he said in the context of his stance and verdicts as a justice from between 1978 and 2006 and the SC president for 11 years. Speaking about his time as a justice the 86-year-old said that he tried not to be overly activist nor overly conservative while delivering verdicts and took into account Israel’s history, Zionism and the country’s security needs and that he was sorry to be depicted as “the enemy of the people”, reported the Times of Israel. According to the report, Barak also said that he feels like he is obligated to warn the public about the “grave danger” their rights are in and it would not matter if they are, Jew, Arab, ultra-Orthodox, or not ultra-Orthodox. Israeli democracy will be left with one branch of governance which would be the PM. He also went on to explain that nobody will be protected from the political majority since the Knesset is powerless against the majority coalition, and Israel has no constitution, Bill of Rights, or even a second House, reported the Times of Israel. It will also affect Israel on an international level, Barak said, noting that the High Court has acted as a legal “Iron Dome” ensuring Israel’s democratic functioning, including in its treatment of the Palestinians. ALSO WATCH | Israel's new proposals give sweeping power to the Israeli government If the High Court is affected by Levin's plans to weaken it, “our chief of staff and government ministers will immediately be arrested when they travel overseas…The leaders of the country will be put on trial in the International Criminal Court in The Hague,” as per Times of Israel. What has Levin said about the plans? Subsequently, even the justice minister was also interviewed on Saturday, where he said that while he respects the former top judge, he “does not understand the essence of democracy.” Levin also dismissed the idea of establishing a committee with Barak to compromise on his proposal and said that he would discuss the plan with key members of the parliament and hope that the final legislation is “as close as possible” to the proposed one, said the media report. ALSO READ | Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery, Israeli cops launch probe He also, in turn, criticised Barak and said he “fundamentally contradicted democracy…all power rests with the judges, and they decide what’s proportionate and reasonable. That’s not democratic.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms

Not everyone is happy with Israel's new right-wing coalition government, which came to power after weeks of painstaking negotiations made politicians bargain over posts in a way that has left other in disarray.

Israel's most right-wing coalition and its many challenges

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'.

A couple of weeks after forming the most right-wing government in the history of Israel, the Benjamin Netanyahu government has focused its attention on revamp of the 'judiciary'. Justice Minister Yair Levin on Wednesday presented the 'judicial overhaul package' aimed at neutering the judicial system of the country, according to the detractors. “I’ve warned against the damage caused by judicialisation. Now, the time has come to act," said Levin while presenting the overhaul package. Under the revamp programme, the country's parliament, also called Knesset will be given powers to override Supreme Court decisions with a simple majority of 61 votes. WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities × Calling the legislation 'balanced', Levin enlisted another rule that will forbid the court from using a test of reasonableness to judge the decisions taken by the government. Moreover, the panel that chooses the judges will be reformed and politicians will have an enhanced say in the selection. Currently, a nine-member panel chooses the judges which has three members of the government. However, if Levin's overhaul gets the nod, two representatives chosen by him i.e the justice minister will also sit on the panel. Effectively the government will have the majority of five against four in the committee. Lastly, the ministers will be able to appoint their own legal advisers under the new plan. Before signing off, Levin added that the package will be debated in the 120-seat Knesset. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the overhaul of the judiciary saying the new legislation will create a balance between the courts, government and the parliament. “We will revise the way we govern. We’ll take steps that strengthen personal security throughout the state. We’ll start by enacting reforms that will ensure the proper balance between the three branches of government.” Read more: Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history The critics of the plan argue that by passing the said legislation, the Netanyahu government will be undermining democracy in the country. The believe that power will reside in the hands of the most unilateral coalition in the history of the country without any checks and balances in place. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel government lays out sweeping court reform plan, setting up showdown with the judiciary

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leading the country's most right-wing government ever, pledged to press ahead with policies that have irked critics back at home and also abroad - one such policy is the overhaul of the country's judicial system which can potentially weaken the Supreme Court.

Israel govt's controversial court reforms; minister unveils plan that may weaken top court

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar&nbsp;Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

Netanyahu was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm, marking his first public visit to the Gulf state.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He had many unofficial visits to the Arab country before the 2020 Abraham Accords, but never an official visit.&nbsp;

Ynet news quoting close aides of Netanyahu reported that there was no connection between the incidents, saying that the visit was postponed due to logistical reasons.&nbsp;

Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque drew wide condemnation from countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and Turkey, while western nations like US, France, and the European Union, appealed for calm and protect the sensitive status quo. The Gaza-based Hamas terrorist group, on the other hand, carried out threats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site</h2>

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The UAE government "underscored the need to respect the custodial role of Jordan over the holy sites and endowments in accordance with international law and the historical situation at hand, and not to compromise the authority of the Jerusalem Endowment Administration and Al-Aqsa Mosque" and called on Israel "to assume responsibility for reducing escalation and instability in the region."&nbsp;

Al-Aqsa Mosque is equally revered by Muslims and Jews. While it is the third-holiest place in Islam, Jews consider it be to their sacred site and refer to it as the Temple Mount.&nbsp;

There is a long-standing tacit agreement that non-Muslims can visit the site at specific times but are not allowed to pray there.&nbsp;

However, a growing number of Jews, most of them Israeli nationalists, recently have covertly prayed at the compound, which has been decried by Palestinians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't visit UAE next week, state media reported on Tuesday, hours after the controversy surrounding National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Netanyahu was slated to visit Abu Dhabi to meet the Crown Prince and ruler of the emirates Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyanm, marking his first public visit to the Gulf state. He had many unofficial visits to the Arab country before the 2020 Abraham Accords, but never an official visit. Ynet news quoting close aides of Netanyahu reported that there was no connection between the incidents, saying that the visit was postponed due to logistical reasons. Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque drew wide condemnation from countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and Turkey, while western nations like US, France, and the European Union, appealed for calm and protect the sensitive status quo. The Gaza-based Hamas terrorist group, on the other hand, carried out threats. WION Dispatch: Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir visits volatile Jerusalem holy site The UAE government "underscored the need to respect the custodial role of Jordan over the holy sites and endowments in accordance with international law and the historical situation at hand, and not to compromise the authority of the Jerusalem Endowment Administration and Al-Aqsa Mosque" and called on Israel "to assume responsibility for reducing escalation and instability in the region." Al-Aqsa Mosque is equally revered by Muslims and Jews. While it is the third-holiest place in Islam, Jews consider it be to their sacred site and refer to it as the Temple Mount. There is a long-standing tacit agreement that non-Muslims can visit the site at specific times but are not allowed to pray there. However, a growing number of Jews, most of them Israeli nationalists, recently have covertly prayed at the compound, which has been decried by Palestinians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip hours after row over Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Mosque : Report

A day after the United General Assembly passed a resolution asking the International Court of Justice its opinion on legal consequences of the Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territory. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused the global body of distorting historical facts.

Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.&nbsp;"The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision".

Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built.

Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ

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Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land.

The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them.

The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem."

Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits.

The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday (December 31) vehemently slammed a United Nations General Assembly vote that asked for a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. "The Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land nor occupiers in our eternal capital Jerusalem and no U.N. resolution can distort that historical truth," Netanyahu said in a video message, adding that Israel was not bound by the "despicable decision". Netanyahu has assumed prime ministerial office just this week. He is heading a government which has set settlement expansion as a priority and includes parties who want to annex West Bank land where they are built. Watch | Israel-Palestine conflict at United Nations, resolution against Israel at ICJ × Palestinians seek occupied West Bank, along with Gaza and East Jerusalem for the Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are viewed by most countries as illegal. Israel strongly disputes this view citing historical and biblical ties to the land. The Hague-based International Court of Justice (ICJ) also known as the World Court, is the top UN court dealing with disputes between states. Its rulings are binding, though the ICJ has no power to enforce them. The U.N. General Assembly asked the ICJ to give an advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem." Members of Netanyahu's new government have pledged to bolster settlements with development plans, budgets and authorisation of dozens of outposts built without permits. The cabinet includes newly created posts and restructured roles that grant some of those powers to pro-settler coalition partners, who ultimately aim to extend Israeli sovereignty to the West Bank. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Benjamin Netanyahu slams ‘despicable’ UN vote, says Israel not bound by it

73 years old Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as Israel's new Prime Minister. Netanyahu has already unveiled his right-wing government's policy priorities

EXCLUSIVE: Ex-member of Knesset Dov Lipman speaks to WION

The King of Jordan has warned Israel against changing the status quo of holy sites in Jerusalem. This comes after Netanyahu laid out a plan promising expansion of West Bank settlements. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Jordan's King Abdullah II warns Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM&nbsp;as he heads the 37th government of Israel.&nbsp;

The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November.&nbsp;

Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with&nbsp;former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post.&nbsp;

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🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1608469523774181377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government.&nbsp;

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Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. <a href="https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2">https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2</a>
— ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelReform/status/1608390089968582658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said,&nbsp;"We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords."&nbsp;

He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time."&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members.

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM as he heads the 37th government of Israel. The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November. Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post. 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/woeI4sOxBk — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education. Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government. Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2 — ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) December 29, 2022 × In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said, "We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords." He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time." United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Benjamin Netanyahu sworn in as Israel's Prime Minister, heads country's most right-wing govt ever

Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the&nbsp;Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset.

Netanyahu spent the last 17 months before his re-election&nbsp;in the opposition while facing&nbsp;three corruption trials. During his time out of office, there was a minimal deviation from the already&nbsp;established cooperation apparatus between India and Israel.

Experts that WION reached out to, pointed out the convergence of interests between India and Israel&nbsp;that is expected to fuel the bilateral cooperation&nbsp;during Netanyahu's upcoming tenure in Jerusalem's Prime Minister's Office.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-benjamin-netanyahu-forms-new-coalition-government-545456">Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government</a>

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"This convergence of interests meant that when Israel’s foreign policy orientation vis-à-vis its Arab neighbours was undergoing transformation, it found a partner like India to establish regional mechanisms such as I2U2 and tackle challenges of food security and climate change," says Sameer Patil, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation.

Netanyahu and the state of I2U2 or 'West Asia Quad'

&nbsp;

"With Netanyahu's re-election as Israel's Prime Minister, the I2U2 quadrilateral will get a further boost," says Sifra Lentin, Fellow, Bombay History Studies at Mumbai-based Gateway House, referring to the crucial multilateral group with geopolitical implications, consisting of India, Israel, the United States and United Arab Emirates (I2U2).

Initially called the International Forum for Economic Cooperation, the I2U2 grouping held its first&nbsp;summit virtually in July 2022. Its joint statement reaffirmed the support for the Abraham accords and pledged India-centric investments worth $2.33 billion in the areas of food security and clean energy. This includes 300 megawatts hybrid renewable energy project in India's Gujarat state with an estimated cost of $330 million as well as $2 billion-worth investments to develop a series of food parks across India.

"We need to look forward to India and Israel as partners in a multilateral like I2U2 where we have other good friends like the UAE and the United States. India also has excellent relations with all the signatories of the Abraham Accords," adds Sifra Lentin, referring to the accords of normalised diplomatic ties of Israel with Bahrain and UAE, respectively.&nbsp;

Cooperation in developing startups

In November 2021, India and Israel signed a bilateral agreement for innovation in dual-use technologies. A prior MoU with a contribution of US$20 million from each side over five years (2018-2023) continues to fuel joint India-Israel Research and Development projects.&nbsp;

The total trade between the two countries stood at $7.86 billion in 2021-22.&nbsp;

Experts say that the convergence of mutual interests between India and Israel&nbsp;is 'very strong'.&nbsp;Be it defence, trade, education, tourism, or diaspora relations.&nbsp;

India-Israel relations: Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic'

Experts say that one must not forget that there was an acceleration in Indo-Israel engagements when Modi and Netanyahu were at the helm of their respective national capitals. At the same time, the scale of ambition brought about by the two leaders must get its due credit.

"What Netanyahu should get credit for is the ambition that he brought to the bilateral relationship. In Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Netanyahu got a like-minded ambitious counterpart. As a result, both sides explored newer areas for collaboration such as emerging technologies, while strengthening the existing partnership in sectors like defence," ORF's Sameer Patil told WION.

"The tenor of the bilateral relations has been the same even under his successors but, yes, there is a certain magic with Modi-Bibi at the helm," Sifra Lentin told WION.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the Knesset with 32 seats.

Benjamin Netanyahu has made a stunning comeback to Jerusalem's power corridors. 'The King of Israel', as his loyal supporters call him, led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in the Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Netanyahu spent the last 17 months before his re-election in the opposition while facing three corruption trials. During his time out of office, there was a minimal deviation from the already established cooperation apparatus between India and Israel. Experts that WION reached out to, pointed out the convergence of interests between India and Israel that is expected to fuel the bilateral cooperation during Netanyahu's upcoming tenure in Jerusalem's Prime Minister's Office. WATCH | Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government × "This convergence of interests meant that when Israel’s foreign policy orientation vis-à-vis its Arab neighbours was undergoing transformation, it found a partner like India to establish regional mechanisms such as I2U2 and tackle challenges of food security and climate change," says Sameer Patil, Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation. Netanyahu and the state of I2U2 or 'West Asia Quad' "With Netanyahu's re-election as Israel's Prime Minister, the I2U2 quadrilateral will get a further boost," says Sifra Lentin, Fellow, Bombay History Studies at Mumbai-based Gateway House, referring to the crucial multilateral group with geopolitical implications, consisting of India, Israel, the United States and United Arab Emirates (I2U2). Initially called the International Forum for Economic Cooperation, the I2U2 grouping held its first summit virtually in July 2022. Its joint statement reaffirmed the support for the Abraham accords and pledged India-centric investments worth $2.33 billion in the areas of food security and clean energy. This includes 300 megawatts hybrid renewable energy project in India's Gujarat state with an estimated cost of $330 million as well as $2 billion-worth investments to develop a series of food parks across India. "We need to look forward to India and Israel as partners in a multilateral like I2U2 where we have other good friends like the UAE and the United States. India also has excellent relations with all the signatories of the Abraham Accords," adds Sifra Lentin, referring to the accords of normalised diplomatic ties of Israel with Bahrain and UAE, respectively. Cooperation in developing startups In November 2021, India and Israel signed a bilateral agreement for innovation in dual-use technologies. A prior MoU with a contribution of US$20 million from each side over five years (2018-2023) continues to fuel joint India-Israel Research and Development projects. The total trade between the two countries stood at $7.86 billion in 2021-22. Experts say that the convergence of mutual interests between India and Israel is 'very strong'. Be it defence, trade, education, tourism, or diaspora relations. India-Israel relations: Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' Experts say that one must not forget that there was an acceleration in Indo-Israel engagements when Modi and Netanyahu were at the helm of their respective national capitals. At the same time, the scale of ambition brought about by the two leaders must get its due credit. "What Netanyahu should get credit for is the ambition that he brought to the bilateral relationship. In Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Netanyahu got a like-minded ambitious counterpart. As a result, both sides explored newer areas for collaboration such as emerging technologies, while strengthening the existing partnership in sectors like defence," ORF's Sameer Patil told WION. "The tenor of the bilateral relations has been the same even under his successors but, yes, there is a certain magic with Modi-Bibi at the helm," Sifra Lentin told WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netanyahu re-election: How Modi-Bibi at helm create 'certain magic' in India-Israel ties

Benjamin Netanyahu will be sworn in as Prime Minister of Israel for a record sixth time on Thursday. Netanyahu, whose coalition won a clear majority in November elections, will head up a highly controversial right-wing government.

WION Dispatch:  PM-designate Benjamin Netanyahu clinches hard-right government deals

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled his right-wing LUKID government's policy priorities and topping the list is the proposed West Bank settlement expansion. Netanyahu also vows for more settlements in the West bank.

Netanyahu vows for more settlements in West Bank

Benjamin Netanyahu had unveiled his right-wing government policy priorities. The incoming Israeli government seeks to legalize dozens of outposts.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities

Israel's new government to be sworn in after weeks of unexpectedly tough coalition negotiations. Netanyahu is set to assume the role of prime minister for the sixth time.

Watch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu swearing-in ceremony

Benjamin Netanyahu had unveiled his right-wing government policy priorities. The incoming Israeli government seeks to legalize dozens of outposts

An upcoming minister of Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government has created a stir in the country after she suggested that doctors should be allowed not to give treatment to LGBTQ patients on religious grounds.

Orit Strook, of the Religious Zionist party, made the remarks on Sunday saying that her party is drafting legislation that could potentially allow doctors to refuse treatment to LGBTQ people.

She further stated that a doctor could refuse care to a patient if doing so violates his religious beliefs “as long as there are enough other doctors who can give this service”, reports the Times of Israel newspaper.

The bill she was referring to is part of a wider proposed legislation to allow businesses or private enterprises to refuse service on the grounds of religious conscience.

Kan state broadcaster reported that Netanyahu’s Likud party and Religious Zionism have a deal as part of their coalition government that they will pass the new legislation once they assume full control of the office.

However, Netanyahu denied that the coalition deal provided for such a law, and condemned his colleague’s words.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-wealthy-lawmaker-and-critic-of-putins-ukraine-war-found-dead-in-india-546866">&nbsp;Russia’s wealthy lawmaker and critic of Putin's Ukraine war found dead in India</a>

“MK Orit Strock’s words are unacceptable to me and my colleagues in Likud. The coalition agreements do not allow for discrimination against LGBT people or for harming the right of any citizen in Israel to receive service. Likud will guarantee that there will be no harm to LGBT people or any Israeli citizen,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraines-president-speaks-to-indian-pm-modi-over-phone-seeks-help-with-peace-formula-546821">Zelensky speaks to Indian PM Modi over phone, seeks help with 'peace formula'</a>

Israeli President Isaac Herzog, too, weighed in to condemn the anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, saying, “The racist pronouncements of recent days against the LGBTQ community and other sectors of the public make me extremely worried and concerned.”

The president added that such rhetoric undermined Israeli “democratic and moral values”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An upcoming minister of Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government has created a stir in the country after she suggested that doctors should be allowed not to give treatment to LGBTQ patients on religious grounds.

An upcoming minister of Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government has created a stir in the country after she suggested that doctors should be allowed not to give treatment to LGBTQ patients on religious grounds. Orit Strook, of the Religious Zionist party, made the remarks on Sunday saying that her party is drafting legislation that could potentially allow doctors to refuse treatment to LGBTQ people. She further stated that a doctor could refuse care to a patient if doing so violates his religious beliefs “as long as there are enough other doctors who can give this service”, reports the Times of Israel newspaper. The bill she was referring to is part of a wider proposed legislation to allow businesses or private enterprises to refuse service on the grounds of religious conscience. Kan state broadcaster reported that Netanyahu’s Likud party and Religious Zionism have a deal as part of their coalition government that they will pass the new legislation once they assume full control of the office. However, Netanyahu denied that the coalition deal provided for such a law, and condemned his colleague’s words. Also read | Russia’s wealthy lawmaker and critic of Putin's Ukraine war found dead in India “MK Orit Strock’s words are unacceptable to me and my colleagues in Likud. The coalition agreements do not allow for discrimination against LGBT people or for harming the right of any citizen in Israel to receive service. Likud will guarantee that there will be no harm to LGBT people or any Israeli citizen,” Netanyahu said in a statement. Also read | Zelensky speaks to Indian PM Modi over phone, seeks help with 'peace formula' Israeli President Isaac Herzog, too, weighed in to condemn the anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, saying, “The racist pronouncements of recent days against the LGBTQ community and other sectors of the public make me extremely worried and concerned.” The president added that such rhetoric undermined Israeli “democratic and moral values”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Doctors can refuse to treat LGBTQ patients on religious grounds, says Israeli minister-designate

Israel's Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday voiced concern for the well-being of all the citizens of the nation regardless of their identity or values. He pledged that his coalition government will not pass any bills that allow discrimination against the LGBTQ community.

Promising to preserve the principles of tolerance he said, "We will not allow discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community or harm to the rights of any other citizens of Israel."

Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government

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This as per IANS comes as two of his extreme-right partners recently in a statement vowed to pass laws which allow physicians and business owners to discriminate against people from the community.

Orit Struck, a lawmaker with the pro-settler Religious Zionist Party in an interview with Israel's state-owned Kan radio said that her party is determined to change the anti-discrimination law, and permit doctors to refuse acts that go against their religious beliefs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/love-is-love-countries-where-same-sex-marriage-and-surrogacy-is-legal-520301">'Love is love': Countries where same-sex marriage and surrogacy is legal</a>

Simcha Rotman, another lawmaker of the same party told the public radio, that owners of hotels, restaurants, private businesses etc would be allowed to refuse service to LGBTQ people "if it harms their religious sentiments".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-final-tv-polls-indicate-that-the-netanyahu-bloc-is-one-seat-short-of-a-majority-529786">Israel elections: Final TV polls indicate that the Netanyahu bloc is one seat short of a majority</a>

Netanyahu who as per Reuters has been accused of being vulnerable to his far-right allies' policy demands, in a rare rebuke, called the remarks "unacceptable" and said that "the coalition agreements do not permit discrimination against LGBTs or to harm their rights to receive services as any other citizen in Israel".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israel's Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday voiced concern for the well-being of all the citizens of the nation regardless of their identity or values.

Israel's Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday voiced concern for the well-being of all the citizens of the nation regardless of their identity or values. He pledged that his coalition government will not pass any bills that allow discrimination against the LGBTQ community. Promising to preserve the principles of tolerance he said, "We will not allow discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community or harm to the rights of any other citizens of Israel." Watch | WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government This as per IANS comes as two of his extreme-right partners recently in a statement vowed to pass laws which allow physicians and business owners to discriminate against people from the community. Orit Struck, a lawmaker with the pro-settler Religious Zionist Party in an interview with Israel's state-owned Kan radio said that her party is determined to change the anti-discrimination law, and permit doctors to refuse acts that go against their religious beliefs. Also read | 'Love is love': Countries where same-sex marriage and surrogacy is legal Simcha Rotman, another lawmaker of the same party told the public radio, that owners of hotels, restaurants, private businesses etc would be allowed to refuse service to LGBTQ people "if it harms their religious sentiments". Also read | Israel elections: Final TV polls indicate that the Netanyahu bloc is one seat short of a majority Netanyahu who as per Reuters has been accused of being vulnerable to his far-right allies' policy demands, in a rare rebuke, called the remarks "unacceptable" and said that "the coalition agreements do not permit discrimination against LGBTs or to harm their rights to receive services as any other citizen in Israel". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel: Netanyahu vows to preserve principles of tolerance, says won't tolerate discrimination against LGBTQ

Benjamin Netanyahu makes an announcement on Twitter that he has succeeded in forming a new government in Israel after a tough negotiation with religious and far-right coalition partners. It will be the most right-wing coalition in Israel's history. Watch to know further.

WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government

Benjamin Netanyahu makes an announcement on Twitter that he has succeeded in forming a new government in Israel after a tough negotiation with religious and far-right coalition partners. It will be the most right-wing coalition in Israel's history.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government

A month after winning the elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finally mustered a coalition government, considered to be the most right in the country’s history.

His coalition consists of the main ultra-Orthodox parties and members of the extreme bloc that ran under the Religious Zionism alliance.

One of the coalition parties of Netanyahu’s government has a history of spewing anti-Arab racism, with a leader once convicted of such an act.

The announcement sets the stage for him to return to power for the record sixth term.

Minutes after forming the government, the Israeli leader tweeted, “Thanks to the enormous public support we received in the last elections, I was able to establish a government that will work for the benefit of all Israeli citizens.”

Netanyahu made the announcement after meeting President Isaac Herzog, moments before a midnight deadline.

Netanyahu’s Likud party has been engaging in intense negations with his allies after the November polls.

However, the talks went on for weeks with Netanyahu forced to meet the demands for senior cabinet posts, some of which he was compelled to grant.

Among his most controversial moves was promising an expanded national security ministry to the head of the Jewish Power party, Itamar Ben Gvir, who has a long history of using incendiary rhetoric against Arabs.

It is currently unknown when the new government will be sworn in, but Netanyahu told Herzog that he intended to do so "as soon as possible", reports AFP news agency.

Even before the ministers take charge, speculations have gained momentum on the reforms planned by the incoming government.

Experts have raised concerns about some legal reforms that could give the MPs the right to overrule Supreme Court decisions, saying that they threaten to undermine Israeli democracy.

The coalition partners have also proposed other measures that could end Netanyahu's ongoing trial on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A month after winning the elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finally mustered a coalition government, considered to be the most right in the country’s history.

A month after winning the elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finally mustered a coalition government, considered to be the most right in the country’s history. His coalition consists of the main ultra-Orthodox parties and members of the extreme bloc that ran under the Religious Zionism alliance. One of the coalition parties of Netanyahu’s government has a history of spewing anti-Arab racism, with a leader once convicted of such an act. The announcement sets the stage for him to return to power for the record sixth term. Minutes after forming the government, the Israeli leader tweeted, “Thanks to the enormous public support we received in the last elections, I was able to establish a government that will work for the benefit of all Israeli citizens.” Netanyahu made the announcement after meeting President Isaac Herzog, moments before a midnight deadline. Netanyahu’s Likud party has been engaging in intense negations with his allies after the November polls. However, the talks went on for weeks with Netanyahu forced to meet the demands for senior cabinet posts, some of which he was compelled to grant. Among his most controversial moves was promising an expanded national security ministry to the head of the Jewish Power party, Itamar Ben Gvir, who has a long history of using incendiary rhetoric against Arabs. It is currently unknown when the new government will be sworn in, but Netanyahu told Herzog that he intended to do so "as soon as possible", reports AFP news agency. Even before the ministers take charge, speculations have gained momentum on the reforms planned by the incoming government. Experts have raised concerns about some legal reforms that could give the MPs the right to overrule Supreme Court decisions, saying that they threaten to undermine Israeli democracy. The coalition partners have also proposed other measures that could end Netanyahu's ongoing trial on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history

Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal. Netanyahu reached an understanding with an ultra-orthodox Jewish party regarding the division of cabinet positions to reach the majority number in the parliament. Reuters reported that the Shas party will receive five ministerial positions for lending their support to Netanyahu and his government.

"We have achieved another step towards forming a government," Netanyahu told local media.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-election-results-2022-bjp-records-biggest-ever-win-in-modis-home-turf-541178">BJP inching towards over three-fourth majority on PM Modi’s home turf Gujarat</a>

Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party, along with coalition partners – Religious Zionism, Jewish Power, and the anti-LGBT Noam – was able to gain significant amount&nbsp;of seats in the latest elections. However, they fell just short of clinching a parliamentary majority and that has allowed Shas to assert power.&nbsp;

While Shas will have the choice of multiple cabinet positions, its leader – Aryeh Deri – may find it difficult to become a minister. The politician was convicted of tax offenses by the country’s attorney general and under the current rules, that can disqualify him from serving as a cabinet minister.&nbsp;

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However, under the deal cracked by the two parties, Deri is supposed to become the new interior minister and health minister in Netanyahu's next government. If local media reports are to be believed, he can also become the first Orthodox Jew to become deputy prime minister of the country.&nbsp;

While Netanyahu has almost secured the right to form the new government, the parliament is expected to grant a two-week extension to the existing cabinet to smoothen the transition.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal.

Benjamin Netanyahu moves even closer to becoming the Prime Minister of Israel once again as the coalition that secured the most votes in the elections was able to secure a crucial deal. Netanyahu reached an understanding with an ultra-orthodox Jewish party regarding the division of cabinet positions to reach the majority number in the parliament. Reuters reported that the Shas party will receive five ministerial positions for lending their support to Netanyahu and his government. "We have achieved another step towards forming a government," Netanyahu told local media. Also read | BJP inching towards over three-fourth majority on PM Modi’s home turf Gujarat Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party, along with coalition partners – Religious Zionism, Jewish Power, and the anti-LGBT Noam – was able to gain significant amount of seats in the latest elections. However, they fell just short of clinching a parliamentary majority and that has allowed Shas to assert power. While Shas will have the choice of multiple cabinet positions, its leader – Aryeh Deri – may find it difficult to become a minister. The politician was convicted of tax offenses by the country’s attorney general and under the current rules, that can disqualify him from serving as a cabinet minister. Also read | Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion However, under the deal cracked by the two parties, Deri is supposed to become the new interior minister and health minister in Netanyahu's next government. If local media reports are to be believed, he can also become the first Orthodox Jew to become deputy prime minister of the country. While Netanyahu has almost secured the right to form the new government, the parliament is expected to grant a two-week extension to the existing cabinet to smoothen the transition.

Benjamin Netanyahu inches closer towards forming new government in Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu wants to change the Parliament speaker. Reportedly, the Parliament speaker controls the timing of the legislative agenda.

Benjamin Netanyahu wants to change the Parliament speaker

A Palestinian was hailed as a hero by Islamists after he killed three Israelis near a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, a few hours before Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power with a right wing coalition.&nbsp;

The killing took place at Ariel's settlement's industrial zone where a man who was allegedly carrying a knife killed the three individuals. The man was later shot dead by one of the soldiers in the area.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-army-fatally-shot-a-palestinian-teenager-during-a-raid-in-west-bank-534178">Also read |&nbsp;Israeli army fatally shot a Palestinian teenager during a raid in West Bank</a>

The officials stated this to be one of the bloodiest attacks that took place since March this year. Right wing politician Itamar Ben-Gvir tweeted about the Ariel attack. The tweet read, "Only an iron fist will cut down terrorism." He also demanded open-fire rules for the soldiers.&nbsp;

However, the rise in control of Ben-Gvir came as worry for Arabs in Israel over his racist incitement and support for an outlawed Jewish militant group. He said that he wants to be police minister, and Netanyahu said the coalition will agree soon on the matter. Ben-Gvir claims that he has moderated since then. He's also been convicted in criminal cases.&nbsp;

The Palestinian health ministry identified the knifeman as an 18-year-old from a neighbouring village. The ministry further stated that the man started stabbing people as soon as he entered the area.&nbsp;

The United States also showed concern over the recent brutal attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-adopts-palestinian-resolution-to-ask-icj-opinion-on-israels-prolonged-occupation-533483">Also read |&nbsp;UN adopts Palestinian resolution to seek ICJ opinion on Israel’s ‘prolonged occupation’</a>

Israel blames Palestinian Authority (PA) for the recent attack for being unable to control Islamist Hamas and for praising the attack. However, the PA said that its authority is restricted by Israel in the region and that it cannot prevent violence against Palestinians.&nbsp;

PA President Mahmoud Abbas said that Palestinians will not accept Israel's capture forever.&nbsp; "We will take serious and decisive steps to protect the rights of our people and end the reckless&nbsp;Israeli escalation."

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Palestinian was hailed as a hero by Islamists after he killed three Israelis near a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, a few hours before Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power with a right wing coalition.

A Palestinian was hailed as a hero by Islamists after he killed three Israelis near a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, a few hours before Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power with a right wing coalition. The killing took place at Ariel's settlement's industrial zone where a man who was allegedly carrying a knife killed the three individuals. The man was later shot dead by one of the soldiers in the area. Also read | Israeli army fatally shot a Palestinian teenager during a raid in West Bank The officials stated this to be one of the bloodiest attacks that took place since March this year. Right wing politician Itamar Ben-Gvir tweeted about the Ariel attack. The tweet read, "Only an iron fist will cut down terrorism." He also demanded open-fire rules for the soldiers. However, the rise in control of Ben-Gvir came as worry for Arabs in Israel over his racist incitement and support for an outlawed Jewish militant group. He said that he wants to be police minister, and Netanyahu said the coalition will agree soon on the matter. Ben-Gvir claims that he has moderated since then. He's also been convicted in criminal cases. The Palestinian health ministry identified the knifeman as an 18-year-old from a neighbouring village. The ministry further stated that the man started stabbing people as soon as he entered the area. The United States also showed concern over the recent brutal attack. Also read | UN adopts Palestinian resolution to seek ICJ opinion on Israel’s ‘prolonged occupation’ Israel blames Palestinian Authority (PA) for the recent attack for being unable to control Islamist Hamas and for praising the attack. However, the PA said that its authority is restricted by Israel in the region and that it cannot prevent violence against Palestinians. PA President Mahmoud Abbas said that Palestinians will not accept Israel's capture forever. "We will take serious and decisive steps to protect the rights of our people and end the reckless Israeli escalation." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

18-year-old Palestinian kills three Israelis in West Bank

Benjamin Netanyahu is all set to become Israel’s prime minister once again. President Isaac Herzog announced on Friday that he will invite the veteran politician and his coalition partners to form the new government. Netanyahu is already the longest-serving Prime Minister in the history of the nation and this will be the record sixth time that the 73-year-old will assume the position.

Herzog will officially issue the mandate to Netanyahu on Sunday, local media in Israel reported.

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Herzog’s office released an official statement on Friday which cemented Netanyahu’s claim after a formidable performance in the elections. With Israel hosting several elections in the past eight years, the stability of the government has come under question and this move is expected to remedy it.

“At the end of the round of consultations, 64 members of the Knesset recommended to the president the chairman of the Likud faction, MK Benjamin Netanyahu,” the statement read.

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Following the election results, Herzog has met all major leaders in the country and their recommendations were taken when it comes to choosing the leader of the Knesset – the parliament in Israel. Thanks to a majority, Netanyahu will replace outgoing Prime Minister Yair Lapid.

The process will begin with Netanyahu meeting Herzog at the President’s residence where the formal invitation to form the government will be extended. After the invitation, the winning coalition will have 28 days to form the new government with a provision for a two-week extension and Netanyahu will be leading the new&nbsp;government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Benjamin Netanyahu is all set to become Israel’s prime minister once again. President Isaac Herzog announced on Friday that he will invite the veteran politician and his coalition partners to form the new government.

Benjamin Netanyahu is all set to become Israel’s prime minister once again. President Isaac Herzog announced on Friday that he will invite the veteran politician and his coalition partners to form the new government. Netanyahu is already the longest-serving Prime Minister in the history of the nation and this will be the record sixth time that the 73-year-old will assume the position. Herzog will officially issue the mandate to Netanyahu on Sunday, local media in Israel reported. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war LIVE | Kremlin says Kherson still Russian 'subject' Herzog’s office released an official statement on Friday which cemented Netanyahu’s claim after a formidable performance in the elections. With Israel hosting several elections in the past eight years, the stability of the government has come under question and this move is expected to remedy it. “At the end of the round of consultations, 64 members of the Knesset recommended to the president the chairman of the Likud faction, MK Benjamin Netanyahu,” the statement read. Also read | Ukraine to receive Avenger air defence systems amid US general's call to enter negotiations Following the election results, Herzog has met all major leaders in the country and their recommendations were taken when it comes to choosing the leader of the Knesset – the parliament in Israel. Thanks to a majority, Netanyahu will replace outgoing Prime Minister Yair Lapid. The process will begin with Netanyahu meeting Herzog at the President’s residence where the formal invitation to form the government will be extended. After the invitation, the winning coalition will have 28 days to form the new government with a provision for a two-week extension and Netanyahu will be leading the new government. (With inputs from agencies)

Benjamin Netanyahu to receive mandate to form new government in Israel

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to return as the Prime Minister of Israel. His right-wing coalition is the largest block in the Knesset after Tuesday's polls. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Netanyahu set to return

Benjamin Netanyahu is all set to return as the Prime Minister of Israel. His party received over a million votes. He's said to be at the helm of the most right-wing government in Israel's history.

Israel: Netanyahu set to return as the Prime Minister; Lapid congratulates him

As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time,&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election,&nbsp;Netanyahu, more fondly known as&nbsp;King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government.&nbsp;Reports suggest that&nbsp;Netanyahu is set to form one of the most right-wing governments in history with his religious and ultranationalist allies.&nbsp;

Reportedly, after securing a decisive majority in Israel's fifth election in four years, Netanyahu has instructed&nbsp;Yariv Levin, his right-hand man to open talks with&nbsp;Religious Zionism and two ultra-Orthodox parties over portfolios. 
 
Bezalel Smotric and&nbsp;Itamar Ben-Gvir are expected to receive important ministerial berths&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-israels-longest-serving-pm-with-his-share-of-scandals-530667">Read more:&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM with his share of scandals</a>

Netanyahu led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset.&nbsp;

This election caps the country’s ongoing political instability. Last year, Netanyahu was ousted as the country’s longest-serving leader after 12 years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elections-2022-benjamin-netanyahus-right-wing-bloc-heads-for-majority-530387">WATCH |&nbsp;Israel elections 2022: Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc heads for majority</a>

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Earlier this week on Thursday,&nbsp;Israel's incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded defeat and congratulated Netanyahu for the victory.&nbsp;

“The state of Israel comes before any political consideration. I wish Netanyahu success, for the sake of the people of Israel and the state of Israel,” said the interim prime minister.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-netanyahu-makes-a-comeback-pm-lapid-concedes-defeat-531006">Read more:&nbsp;Israel election: Netanyahu makes a comeback, PM Yair Lapid concedes defeat</a>

Furthermore, a statement by his office said that following the results, Lapid also "instructed his entire office to prepare an organised transition of power.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time, Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election, Netanyahu, more fondly known as King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government.

As many as 26 years after being elected as Israel's prime minister for the first time, Benjamin Netanyahu is gearing up for another tenure in the office. After making a stunning comeback in the election, Netanyahu, more fondly known as King Bibi has started coalition talks to form the government. Reports suggest that Netanyahu is set to form one of the most right-wing governments in history with his religious and ultranationalist allies. Reportedly, after securing a decisive majority in Israel's fifth election in four years, Netanyahu has instructed Yariv Levin, his right-hand man to open talks with Religious Zionism and two ultra-Orthodox parties over portfolios. Bezalel Smotric and Itamar Ben-Gvir are expected to receive important ministerial berths Read more: Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM with his share of scandals Netanyahu led his Likud Party to become the largest political group in Knesset with 32 seats. Together with his allies, the Netanyahu-led right religious bloc has 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset. This election caps the country’s ongoing political instability. Last year, Netanyahu was ousted as the country’s longest-serving leader after 12 years. WATCH | Israel elections 2022: Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc heads for majority × Earlier this week on Thursday, Israel's incumbent Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded defeat and congratulated Netanyahu for the victory. “The state of Israel comes before any political consideration. I wish Netanyahu success, for the sake of the people of Israel and the state of Israel,” said the interim prime minister. Read more: Israel election: Netanyahu makes a comeback, PM Yair Lapid concedes defeat Furthermore, a statement by his office said that following the results, Lapid also "instructed his entire office to prepare an organised transition of power.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel: Former PM Benjamin Netanyahu starts coalition talks to form the government

Benjamin Netanyahu is no stranger to Israeli politics. The veteran politician was first elected Prime Minister of the country way back in 1996 and has served in that position for 15 years – 12 in a stretch. While he was ousted from the position in 2021, Netanyahu seems on the verge of becoming the PM once again as the rightwing religious bloc took a huge lead in the ongoing general elections.&nbsp;

The 73-year-old, also known as King Bibi, completed his master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States and quickly became a well-known face on American television for speaking in favour of Israel in various debates while serving as a diplomat abroad. &nbsp;

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The transition to mainstream politics came quite smoothly for him as the 1995 assassination of then PM Yitzhak Rabin proved to be a huge roadblock for the Israel-Palestine peace talks and the Netanyahu-led alliance swept the elections one year later to make him the youngest PM in the nation’s history.&nbsp;

Netanyahu became well known for his hard stance on the Palestinian conflict and during his first speech at the US Congress, he made it clear that his position will&nbsp;be “one of power, not compromise”.&nbsp;

While Israel continued to grow as both an economic as well as military power, the regime faced criticism for their handling of the Palestine situation as well as widespread corruption. During his 12-year-tenure, the politician also faced pressure from the international community for his crackdown on protestors.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launches-23-missiles-and-100-artillery-rounds-south-korea-retaliates-530556">North Korea launches 23 missiles in a single day, South Korea retaliates</a>

However, public support continued to keep him in power and on multiple occasions, the coalitions led by Netanyahu emerged as the winners due to anti-Palestine and anti-Arab sentiments.&nbsp;

In 2019, he became the first reigning PM to face a criminal prosecution following three major corruption charges and that proved to be his undoing. As Israel kept holding elections almost every year following the scandal, he failed to secure a majority in 2021 and was ultimately replaced by Naftali Bennett.&nbsp;

With Netanyahu once again becoming the favourite to become Prime Minister, the corruption cases can come back to haunt him. The former PM will not be able to regain his position without a clean chit from the courts but the election victory once again established him as a force in Israeli politics.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu is no stranger to Israeli politics. The veteran politician was first elected Prime Minister of the country way back in 1996 and has served in that position for 15 years – 12 in a stretch.

Benjamin Netanyahu is no stranger to Israeli politics. The veteran politician was first elected Prime Minister of the country way back in 1996 and has served in that position for 15 years – 12 in a stretch. While he was ousted from the position in 2021, Netanyahu seems on the verge of becoming the PM once again as the rightwing religious bloc took a huge lead in the ongoing general elections. The 73-year-old, also known as King Bibi, completed his master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States and quickly became a well-known face on American television for speaking in favour of Israel in various debates while serving as a diplomat abroad. Also read | US says North Korea 'covertly supplying' Russia with artillery shells The transition to mainstream politics came quite smoothly for him as the 1995 assassination of then PM Yitzhak Rabin proved to be a huge roadblock for the Israel-Palestine peace talks and the Netanyahu-led alliance swept the elections one year later to make him the youngest PM in the nation’s history. Netanyahu became well known for his hard stance on the Palestinian conflict and during his first speech at the US Congress, he made it clear that his position will be “one of power, not compromise”. While Israel continued to grow as both an economic as well as military power, the regime faced criticism for their handling of the Palestine situation as well as widespread corruption. During his 12-year-tenure, the politician also faced pressure from the international community for his crackdown on protestors. Also read | North Korea launches 23 missiles in a single day, South Korea retaliates However, public support continued to keep him in power and on multiple occasions, the coalitions led by Netanyahu emerged as the winners due to anti-Palestine and anti-Arab sentiments. In 2019, he became the first reigning PM to face a criminal prosecution following three major corruption charges and that proved to be his undoing. As Israel kept holding elections almost every year following the scandal, he failed to secure a majority in 2021 and was ultimately replaced by Naftali Bennett. With Netanyahu once again becoming the favourite to become Prime Minister, the corruption cases can come back to haunt him. The former PM will not be able to regain his position without a clean chit from the courts but the election victory once again established him as a force in Israeli politics.

Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM with his share of scandals

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Israel slams, Palestinians welcome UN vote; Israel PM Netanyahu says, 'UN vote 'despicable' | WION

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Watch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu swearing-in ceremony

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu unveils his right-wing government's policy priorities

Doctors can refuse to treat LGBTQ patients on religious grounds, says Israeli minister-designate

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WION Dispatch: Israel's most right-wing coalition: Netanyahu to form new government

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu forms new coalition government

Benjamin Netanyahu forms most right-wing coalition govt in Israel's history

Benjamin Netanyahu inches closer towards forming new government in Israel