Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-act-of-domestic-terrorism-new-york-governor-on-knife-rampage-at-rabbis-home-270882">knife rampage at a rabbi's home in New York</a>.&nbsp;

"Israel strongly condemns the recent displays of antisemitism including the vicious attack at the home of a rabbi in Monsey, New York, during Chanukah," Netanyahu tweeted out.&nbsp;

The Israeli prime minister wished recovery for the wounded and offered every possible help.

"We send our best wishes for recovery to the wounded. We will cooperate however possible with the local authorities in order to assist in defeating this phenomenon. We offer our assistance to every country," his tweet read.&nbsp;

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Israel strongly condemns the recent displays of antisemitism including the vicious attack at the home of a rabbi in Monsey, New York, during Chanukah.
— Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1211256398492917761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, New York's governor said that the attack, wherein five people were stabbed, was an act of domestic terrorism.

"This is terrorism, it is domestic terrorism," Cuomo told reporters. "These are people who intend to create mass harm, mass violence, generate fear based on race, color, creed," Governor Andrew Cuomo said.&nbsp;

On Saturday, an assailant burst into a party at a Hasidic rabbi's home in New York and stabbed five people. Two of those stabbed were reported to be in a critical condition.&nbsp;

The victims were attending the Hanukkah celebration at the home of rabbi Chaim Rottenberg, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The assailant was arrested in New York City's Manhattan borough.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday condemned the knife rampage at a rabbi's home in New York. "Israel strongly condemns the recent displays of antisemitism including the vicious attack at the home of a rabbi in Monsey, New York, during Chanukah," Netanyahu tweeted out.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday condemned the knife rampage at a rabbi's home in New York. "Israel strongly condemns the recent displays of antisemitism including the vicious attack at the home of a rabbi in Monsey, New York, during Chanukah," Netanyahu tweeted out. The Israeli prime minister wished recovery for the wounded and offered every possible help. "We send our best wishes for recovery to the wounded. We will cooperate however possible with the local authorities in order to assist in defeating this phenomenon. We offer our assistance to every country," his tweet read. Israel strongly condemns the recent displays of antisemitism including the vicious attack at the home of a rabbi in Monsey, New York, during Chanukah. — Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) December 29, 2019 × Meanwhile, New York's governor said that the attack, wherein five people were stabbed, was an act of domestic terrorism. "This is terrorism, it is domestic terrorism," Cuomo told reporters. "These are people who intend to create mass harm, mass violence, generate fear based on race, color, creed," Governor Andrew Cuomo said. On Saturday, an assailant burst into a party at a Hasidic rabbi's home in New York and stabbed five people. Two of those stabbed were reported to be in a critical condition. The victims were attending the Hanukkah celebration at the home of rabbi Chaim Rottenberg, news agency Reuters reported. The assailant was arrested in New York City's Manhattan borough. (With inputs from Reuters)

Strongly condemn recent displays of antisemitism: Netanyahu on knife rampage at rabbi's home in New York

Corruption charges, challengers in his own party & attacks on rallies, it's been a tough 2019 for Benjamin Netanyahu. #Gravitas #BenjaminNetanyahu #Netanyahu

Gravitas: Challenging times for Benjamin Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will retain leadership of Likud, the political party he has led for more than a decade, after a resounding victory over his challenger. #WION #LikudParty #Israel #BenjaminNetanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu wins Likud party leadership race

Russian politician Alexei Navalny was dragged by police on December 26 during a raid on his Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) headquarters in Moscow. "Alexei was forcibly detained and taken away. He did not resist. Lawyers are still at the FBK, and there's a search underway," Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokeswoman, wrote on Twitter #FinePrint #Alexei #Russia #Netanyahu # RussianPolitician

FinePrint: Russian police raid opposition leader Alexei Navalny's office

The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was rushed offstage as a rocket fired from Gaza towards the city of Israel. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), one rocket was fired from Gaza toward Israel and was intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defense system.

Benjamin Netanyahu rushed offstage as rocket fired from Gaza into Israel

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday.

Netanyahu was holding a rally in the southern city of Ashkelon where he was made to stop while addressing Likud supporters and had bodyguards escort him to shelter after a rocket from Gaza flew overhead Ashkelon city.

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In response to the rocket fired from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> at Israeli civilians earlier tonight, the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1209997194364882947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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There were no reports of any casualties and no Palestinian group admitted responsibility.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/benjamin-netanyahu-rushed-offstage-as-rocket-fired-from-gaza-into-israel-270274/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Netanyahu faces a tough battle ahead of the March general election in Israel - it's third in a year. The Israeli prime minister's image has been dented in recent times by indictment on corruption charges that he denies.

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IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Aviv Kohavi addressing the threats Israel is facing and how the IDF plans to face them. <a href="https://t.co/AFtEk1lrFU">pic.twitter.com/AFtEk1lrFU</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1210019376189071361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Israeli military has confirmed the launch against Ashkelon, which is 12 kilometres from the coastal Palestinian enclave, and said the rocket was shot down by an Iron Dome air defence interceptor.

Israel defence forces addressed the threats and also how the IDF plans to face it.

After the attack, Israel defence forces tweeted: "the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. Israel's modern miracle the Iron Dome just intercepted a rocket mid-air after it was fired from Gaza at Israeli civilians." 
&nbsp;

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday.

After a warning of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was bundled off the stage during an election rally on Wednesday. Netanyahu was holding a rally in the southern city of Ashkelon where he was made to stop while addressing Likud supporters and had bodyguards escort him to shelter after a rocket from Gaza flew overhead Ashkelon city. In response to the rocket fired from #Gaza at Israeli civilians earlier tonight, the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 26, 2019 × There were no reports of any casualties and no Palestinian group admitted responsibility. Watch Video: Netanyahu faces a tough battle ahead of the March general election in Israel - it's third in a year. The Israeli prime minister's image has been dented in recent times by indictment on corruption charges that he denies. IDF Chief of the General Staff LTG Aviv Kohavi addressing the threats Israel is facing and how the IDF plans to face them. pic.twitter.com/AFtEk1lrFU — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 26, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Israeli military has confirmed the launch against Ashkelon, which is 12 kilometres from the coastal Palestinian enclave, and said the rocket was shot down by an Iron Dome air defence interceptor. Israel defence forces addressed the threats and also how the IDF plans to face it. After the attack, Israel defence forces tweeted: "the Israeli Air Force just struck a number of Hamas terror targets in Gaza. Israel's modern miracle the Iron Dome just intercepted a rocket mid-air after it was fired from Gaza at Israeli civilians."

Netanyahu takes cover during election rally after rocket launch from Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories.

The right-wing leader - Benjamin Netanyahu -&nbsp;is fighting for his political life in a March <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-heads-to-new-election-third-in-twelve-months-as-stalemate-continues-267768">election</a>, made the allegation against the international Criminal Court, with Judaism's holy Western Wall as a backdrop during a candle-lighting ceremony marking the start of the eight-day Hanukkah holiday.

"New edicts are being cast against the Jewish people - anti-semitic edicts by the International Criminal Court telling us that we, the Jews standing here next to this wall ... in this city, in this country, have no right to live here and that by doing so, we are committing a war crime," he said.

"Pure anti-semitism," Netanyahu said, raising an argument likely to strike a chord with many Israelis who believe that criticism, especially in Europe, of Israeli policies towards the Palestinians has its roots in anti-Jewish sentiment.

The Hague-based International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said on Friday she would launch a full investigation into alleged war crimes in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip as soon as the court's jurisdiction had been established.

Israel captured those areas in the 1967 Middle East war and withdrew troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip in 2005.

Bensouda's announcement opens the possibility of charges being filed against Israelis or Palestinians. Israeli media, however, largely portrayed it as a bid to subject Israeli leaders and military officers to arrest and trial if they travel overseas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-will-resign-from-other-ministries-but-will-remain-pm-lawyers-267872">Netanyahu</a>'s accusations appeared to be centred on a scenario in which Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where the Western Wall stands within the walled Old City, could be viewed by the court as war crimes.

ICC prosecutors have said a preliminary investigation on the West Bank focused on "reported settlement-related activities engaged in by Israeli authorities".

The Palestinians and many countries consider the settlements to be illegal. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical and historical connections to the land.

The Palestinians have welcomed Bensouda's decision.

Netanyahu said on Friday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/icc-to-probe-alleged-war-crimes-in-palestinian-territories-269444">ICC</a> had no jurisdiction to investigate events in the Palestinian Territories, arguing it could only examine petitions submitted by a sovereign state.

The ICC has the authority to hear cases of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity committed on the territory of the 123 countries that have signed up to it.

Israel has not joined the court but the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank, has done so. The Gaza Strip is run by the PA's rival, the Islamist Hamas group.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the International Criminal Court of anti-semitism on Sunday over its chief prosecutor's plan to pursue a war crimes probe in the Palestinian Territories. The right-wing leader - Benjamin Netanyahu - is fighting for his political life in a March election, made the allegation against the international Criminal Court, with Judaism's holy Western Wall as a backdrop during a candle-lighting ceremony marking the start of the eight-day Hanukkah holiday. "New edicts are being cast against the Jewish people - anti-semitic edicts by the International Criminal Court telling us that we, the Jews standing here next to this wall ... in this city, in this country, have no right to live here and that by doing so, we are committing a war crime," he said. "Pure anti-semitism," Netanyahu said, raising an argument likely to strike a chord with many Israelis who believe that criticism, especially in Europe, of Israeli policies towards the Palestinians has its roots in anti-Jewish sentiment. The Hague-based International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said on Friday she would launch a full investigation into alleged war crimes in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip as soon as the court's jurisdiction had been established. Israel captured those areas in the 1967 Middle East war and withdrew troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip in 2005. Bensouda's announcement opens the possibility of charges being filed against Israelis or Palestinians. Israeli media, however, largely portrayed it as a bid to subject Israeli leaders and military officers to arrest and trial if they travel overseas. Netanyahu's accusations appeared to be centred on a scenario in which Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where the Western Wall stands within the walled Old City, could be viewed by the court as war crimes. ICC prosecutors have said a preliminary investigation on the West Bank focused on "reported settlement-related activities engaged in by Israeli authorities". The Palestinians and many countries consider the settlements to be illegal. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical and historical connections to the land. The Palestinians have welcomed Bensouda's decision. Netanyahu said on Friday the ICC had no jurisdiction to investigate events in the Palestinian Territories, arguing it could only examine petitions submitted by a sovereign state. The ICC has the authority to hear cases of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity committed on the territory of the 123 countries that have signed up to it. Israel has not joined the court but the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in the occupied West Bank, has done so. The Gaza Strip is run by the PA's rival, the Islamist Hamas group.

Netanyahu accuses international court of anti-semitism in war crimes probe

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-president-mahmoud-abbas-points-finger-at-netanyahu-trump-administration-at-unga-252447">Palestine</a>, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.&nbsp;

The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza.

"I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement.

"In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip."

She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe.&nbsp;

I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added.

After the prosecutor's statements, the US &nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly".&nbsp;

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice".&nbsp;

"The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said.

Palestine, on the other hand,&nbsp;praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination". &nbsp;

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor said on Friday that there is a "reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation" on the alleged war crimes committed in Palestine, in a statement which got sharp reactions from the United States and Israel. The Palestinians welcomed the step and described it as "long overdue" after a nearly five-year preliminary probe by the prosecutor into the situation since the 2014 war in Gaza. "I am satisfied that there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation into the situation in Palestine," ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said in a statement. "In brief, I am satisfied that war crimes have been or are being committed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip." She also asked ICC to rule on the territory over which it has jurisdiction because of the "unique and highly contested legal and factual issues attaching to this situation" before launching a full probe. I don't require any authorisation from judges to open a probe as there had been a referral from the Palestinians, she further added. After the prosecutor's statements, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that they oppose this move and any action that seeks to target Israel "unfairly". Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu slammed that statements and called it a "dark day for truth and justice". "The ICC prosecutor's decision has turned the International Criminal Court into a political tool to delegitimise the State of Israel," Netanyahu said. Palestine, on the other hand, praised the step and in a statement said: "a long overdue step to move the process forward towards an investigation, after nearly five long and difficult years of preliminary examination".

International Criminal Court to probe alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories

Israel headed on Wednesday towards the ballot boxes for a record third time in 12 months.

As expected, there was no last-minute miracle as President of Israel Reuven Rivlin's deadline for government formation expired overnight.

Interestingly, even before the deadline lapsed, the Israeli parliament passed a preliminary vote to dissolve itself.

The fresh elections will now be held on March 2 in 2020.

Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to twitter blaming the blue and white party for leading the country to a third election.

He has vowed to win big, this time around.But in reality, Netanyahu faces an uphill battle.

So what does this hat-trick of polls mean for Israel.For Netanyahu, it means more time in office.

He will be looking to reinforce his position by going ahead with his plan to annex the west bank.

As long as he is the prime minister, Netanyahu has immunity from prosecution.

For the general public, this means yet another trip to the polling stations.

Public anger has been growing against the political class for not being able to find common ground.

But recent opinion polls indicate that much of that anger is directed at Netanyahu than his opponent Benny Gantz.

Gantz's blue and white is likely to win more seats than Netanyahu's likud party according to the poll.But he is still likely to fall short of the majority mark.

Israel headed on Wednesday towards the ballot boxes for a record third time in 12 months. As expected, there was no last-minute miracle as President of Israel Reuven Rivlin's deadline for government formation expired overnight.

Israel headed on Wednesday towards the ballot boxes for a record third time in 12 months. As expected, there was no last-minute miracle as President of Israel Reuven Rivlin's deadline for government formation expired overnight. Interestingly, even before the deadline lapsed, the Israeli parliament passed a preliminary vote to dissolve itself. The fresh elections will now be held on March 2 in 2020. Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to twitter blaming the blue and white party for leading the country to a third election. He has vowed to win big, this time around.But in reality, Netanyahu faces an uphill battle. So what does this hat-trick of polls mean for Israel.For Netanyahu, it means more time in office. He will be looking to reinforce his position by going ahead with his plan to annex the west bank. As long as he is the prime minister, Netanyahu has immunity from prosecution. For the general public, this means yet another trip to the polling stations. Public anger has been growing against the political class for not being able to find common ground. But recent opinion polls indicate that much of that anger is directed at Netanyahu than his opponent Benny Gantz. Gantz's blue and white is likely to win more seats than Netanyahu's likud party according to the poll.But he is still likely to fall short of the majority mark.

Israel heads to new election: Third in twelve months as stalemate continues

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-justice-ministry-indicts-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-for-fraud-breach-of-trust-and-corruption-263741">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>, who is battling corruption charges will resign from all the ministerial position but will remain premier, his lawyers said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Netanyahu was indicted last month on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three different corruption cases.

&nbsp;"He will cease being a minister by January 1, 2020 and appoint other ministers instead, Netanyahu's lawyers told the court. They added that Netanyahu will remain to be the prime minister "as per law".&nbsp;

The lawyers' announcement to the Supreme Court came the same morning as parliament dissolved itself and decided a new date for elections in Israel, the third in a year.&nbsp;

The court earlier received a petition demanding that Netanyahu, who is also minister of agriculture, diaspora, health and welfare, resign from all his positions in light of his indictments.

As per law in Israel, if a minister is facing charges, he needs to resign, but no such provision exists for prime ministers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">Attorney general Avichai Mandelblit</a>, who indicted the Israeli PM, also said that Netanyahu cannot be forced to step down.&nbsp;

The Movement for Quality of Government in Israel (MQG), who filed the petition, said that the resignation from other ministeries is not enough, adding that his continuance to hold office as PM is "a terrible shame on Israel".&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is battling corruption charges will resign from all the ministerial position but will remain premier, his lawyers said on Thursday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is battling corruption charges will resign from all the ministerial position but will remain premier, his lawyers said on Thursday. Netanyahu was indicted last month on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three different corruption cases. "He will cease being a minister by January 1, 2020 and appoint other ministers instead, Netanyahu's lawyers told the court. They added that Netanyahu will remain to be the prime minister "as per law". The lawyers' announcement to the Supreme Court came the same morning as parliament dissolved itself and decided a new date for elections in Israel, the third in a year. The court earlier received a petition demanding that Netanyahu, who is also minister of agriculture, diaspora, health and welfare, resign from all his positions in light of his indictments. As per law in Israel, if a minister is facing charges, he needs to resign, but no such provision exists for prime ministers. Attorney general Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted the Israeli PM, also said that Netanyahu cannot be forced to step down. The Movement for Quality of Government in Israel (MQG), who filed the petition, said that the resignation from other ministeries is not enough, adding that his continuance to hold office as PM is "a terrible shame on Israel". (with inputs from AFP)

Benjamin Netanyahu will resign from other ministries but will remain PM: Lawyers

Israel is staring at a third general election this year after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadlocked-israel-faces-repeat-vote-with-deadline-nearing-267198">Benjamin Netanyahu </a>and his rival Benny Gantz failed to reach an agreement over a coalition government

The parliament needs to reach a deal to avert a new election before 11:59 pm (2159 GMT), however, it looks unlikely any breakthrough will occur in a short span over the deadlocked September elections.

Netanyahu and Gantz have engaged in months of negotiations over a potential unity government but have repeatedly disagreed on who should lead it. PM Netanyahu, 70, faced with corruption charges has refused to budge even as &nbsp;Gantz called on him to step down last month. Under Israeli law Netanyahu, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment.

"After 80 days, it's time that for one day, for the citizens of Israel, we sit and have a serious discussion about forming a broad unity government. It's not too late," Gantz said.

Amid the uncertainty, Israelies are now looking at voting for the third time after April and September after Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party nor the centrist Blue and White party led by his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz, won enough seats in the Knesset.

"People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz said at a press conference while taking a dig at PM Netanyahu, adding, "the support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind."

Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day period after the September election to negotiate a coalition under Israel's proportional political system, however, it failed to materialise with both men sticking to their position.

A party needs to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset to form the government.

Israel is staring at a third general election this year after Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Benny Gantz failed to reach an agreement over a coalition government The parliament needs to reach a deal to avert a new election before 11:59 pm (2159 GMT), however, it looks unlikely any breakthrough will occur in a short span over the deadlocked September elections.

Israel is staring at a third general election this year after Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Benny Gantz failed to reach an agreement over a coalition government The parliament needs to reach a deal to avert a new election before 11:59 pm (2159 GMT), however, it looks unlikely any breakthrough will occur in a short span over the deadlocked September elections. Netanyahu and Gantz have engaged in months of negotiations over a potential unity government but have repeatedly disagreed on who should lead it. PM Netanyahu, 70, faced with corruption charges has refused to budge even as Gantz called on him to step down last month. Under Israeli law Netanyahu, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment. "After 80 days, it's time that for one day, for the citizens of Israel, we sit and have a serious discussion about forming a broad unity government. It's not too late," Gantz said. Amid the uncertainty, Israelies are now looking at voting for the third time after April and September after Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party nor the centrist Blue and White party led by his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz, won enough seats in the Knesset. "People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz said at a press conference while taking a dig at PM Netanyahu, adding, "the support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind." Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day period after the September election to negotiate a coalition under Israel's proportional political system, however, it failed to materialise with both men sticking to their position. A party needs to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset to form the government.

Israel stares at third election after Benjamin Netanyahu, Benny Gantz fail to reach agreement

Benjamin Netanyahu acts unperturbed by indictment. Watch video to know more.

Benjamin Netanyahu acts unperturbed by indictment

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-faces-calls-to-quit-but-is-defiant-in-crisis-263975">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party.

Netanyahu, a four-term conservative leader, has denied the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-defies-coup-against-him-amid-corruption-charges-263770">charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust</a> and said he will stay in office and defend himself.

His indictment on Thursday came amid unprecedented political disarray in Israel, after elections in April and September in which neither Netanyahu nor his main challenger, centrist Benny Gantz, secured a governing majority in parliament.

In its petition to the Supreme Court, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel said the first-ever criminal charges against a sitting Israeli prime minister constituted "the crossing of a red line and a grave blow to public trust in ruling institutions".

The court should force Netanyahu to resign or temporarily recuse himself from prime ministerial duties, the movement said. It was not immediately clear when the court might rule on the petition.

Gantz's mandate to form a government - after an unsuccessful attempt by Netanyahu to do so - expired on Wednesday. The next day, Israel's president declared a three-week period in which lawmakers can nominate one of their own to try to put together a ruling coalition.

Should that fail, a new election - Israel's third in a year - will be triggered.

Netanyahu's hope of securing that parliamentary nomination was challenged by Gideon Saar, a rival within his Likud party.

Saar said on Saturday Netanyahu would not able to win a third election and called on Likud to hold a leadership ballot.

"There is only one way in which we can save the country, extricate it from the crisis and ensure the Likud's continued rule - and that is if we go to snap primaries today, within these 21 days," Saar told Israel's Channel 12 television. Saar has previously said he would consider running for the top Likud slot.

While voicing appreciation for Netanyahu's record-long term and noting he was innocent until proven otherwise, Saar criticised the premier's attempts to cast his criminal prosecution as a "coup attempt" involving police, prosecutors and the media.

"Not only is it wrong to say that, it's also irresponsible to say that. It’s completely out of touch," Saar said.

The Likud party spokesman dismissed the challenge.

"It is sad to see that while Prime Minister Netanyahu keeps Israel safe on all fronts and works to preserve Likud rule, Gideon Saar, as is his wont, is displaying zero loyalty and maximum subversion," the spokesman said.

Opening the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu made no mention of the political crisis or his legal woes, speaking about Israeli security issues.

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party.

A watchdog group asked Israel's top court on Sunday to order Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step aside after his indictment on corruption charges, adding to pressure he is facing from within his ruling party. Netanyahu, a four-term conservative leader, has denied the charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust and said he will stay in office and defend himself. His indictment on Thursday came amid unprecedented political disarray in Israel, after elections in April and September in which neither Netanyahu nor his main challenger, centrist Benny Gantz, secured a governing majority in parliament. In its petition to the Supreme Court, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel said the first-ever criminal charges against a sitting Israeli prime minister constituted "the crossing of a red line and a grave blow to public trust in ruling institutions". The court should force Netanyahu to resign or temporarily recuse himself from prime ministerial duties, the movement said. It was not immediately clear when the court might rule on the petition. Gantz's mandate to form a government - after an unsuccessful attempt by Netanyahu to do so - expired on Wednesday. The next day, Israel's president declared a three-week period in which lawmakers can nominate one of their own to try to put together a ruling coalition. Should that fail, a new election - Israel's third in a year - will be triggered. Netanyahu's hope of securing that parliamentary nomination was challenged by Gideon Saar, a rival within his Likud party. Saar said on Saturday Netanyahu would not able to win a third election and called on Likud to hold a leadership ballot. "There is only one way in which we can save the country, extricate it from the crisis and ensure the Likud's continued rule - and that is if we go to snap primaries today, within these 21 days," Saar told Israel's Channel 12 television. Saar has previously said he would consider running for the top Likud slot. While voicing appreciation for Netanyahu's record-long term and noting he was innocent until proven otherwise, Saar criticised the premier's attempts to cast his criminal prosecution as a "coup attempt" involving police, prosecutors and the media. "Not only is it wrong to say that, it's also irresponsible to say that. It’s completely out of touch," Saar said. The Likud party spokesman dismissed the challenge. "It is sad to see that while Prime Minister Netanyahu keeps Israel safe on all fronts and works to preserve Likud rule, Gideon Saar, as is his wont, is displaying zero loyalty and maximum subversion," the spokesman said. Opening the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu made no mention of the political crisis or his legal woes, speaking about Israeli security issues.

Israel's Netanyahu faces court, party challenges after indictment

Israel: PM Benjamin Netanyahu charged in multiple corruption cases. Watch video to know more.

Israel: PM Benjamin Netanyahu charged in multiple corruption cases

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Indicted On Corruption Charges.

Gravitas: End Of The Road For Netanyahu?

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Gravitas: The Netanyahu Report Card

Institutional Autonomy In Israel Gets A Boost As Attorney General Indicts PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

WION Edit: Netanyahu's Indictment: Win For Israel's Democracy

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust and bribery. Watch video to know more.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust and bribery

Watch in WION Dispatch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu indicted. Watch this video as WION's West Asia Bureau chief Daniele Pagani tells you more on this. #WIONDispatch

WION Dispatch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu indicted

Netanyahu decries 'Alleged Coup' against him after Corruption Charges. Watch video to know more.

Netanyahu decries 'Alleged Coup' against him after Corruption Charges

Israel's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/israeli-president-starts-process-of-selecting-next-pm-210524">Reuven Rivlin</a> tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-encouraging-a-nuclear-race-249181">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government.

"Starting today and for 21 days the decision of who to task with forming the government is in the hands of the members of the Knesset (parliament)," Rivlin said, a day after Gantz admitted he would be unable to build a governing coalition.

Parliament will now have until December 11 to find a candidate who can command the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs or a new general election will be called for early 2020.

It would be the third such poll within 12 months.

Rivlin, who has been urging a compromise to break the political deadlock, met with Knesset speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-ngo-bill-seen-as-targeting-left-wing-groups-becomes-law-2312">Yuli Edelstein</a> Thursday and formally handed over the mandate.

It was the first time in Israeli history the president had been forced to ask parliament to find a government.

"The disruptive politics must end," Rivlin said, addressing MPs from all parties.&nbsp;

He reminded them they have a responsibility to keep the country&nbsp;running and said: "Your political fate is not more important than the fate of an old lady in a hospital."

Polls in September left Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party and Gantz's centrist Blue and White coalition near neck-and-neck.

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government.

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government. "Starting today and for 21 days the decision of who to task with forming the government is in the hands of the members of the Knesset (parliament)," Rivlin said, a day after Gantz admitted he would be unable to build a governing coalition. Parliament will now have until December 11 to find a candidate who can command the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs or a new general election will be called for early 2020. It would be the third such poll within 12 months. Rivlin, who has been urging a compromise to break the political deadlock, met with Knesset speaker Yuli Edelstein Thursday and formally handed over the mandate. It was the first time in Israeli history the president had been forced to ask parliament to find a government. "The disruptive politics must end," Rivlin said, addressing MPs from all parties. He reminded them they have a responsibility to keep the country running and said: "Your political fate is not more important than the fate of an old lady in a hospital." Polls in September left Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party and Gantz's centrist Blue and White coalition near neck-and-neck.

Bidding to avoid elections, Israel president asks parliament to find PM

Israel's attorney general will announce at 1730 GMT Thursday whether he plans to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over corruption, the justice ministry said.

Avichai Mandelblit will speak to media on the subject of allegations against Netanyahu at the ministry in Jerusalem, a ministry statement said without further details.

The embattled leader faces a range of graft allegations, from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for favourable coverage.

Netanyahu, who has been in power since 2009, strongly denies all the charges.

It comes as he fights for his political future with the prospect of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-kingmaker-refuses-support-to-netanyahu-or-gantz-as-country-set-for-third-elections-in-a-year-263435">third election </a>in less than twelve months.

Neither he nor centrist rival Benny Gantz have been able to form a governing coalition after September polls left them nearly neck and neck.

The corruption allegations, which have been under investigation for several years, are widely seen as a crucial issue for his political future.

An indictment might permanently damage Netanyahu's political career, whereas a reprieve could give him a new lease of life.

Israel's attorney general will announce at 1730 GMT Thursday whether he plans to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over corruption, the justice ministry said.

Israel's attorney general will announce at 1730 GMT Thursday whether he plans to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over corruption, the justice ministry said. Avichai Mandelblit will speak to media on the subject of allegations against Netanyahu at the ministry in Jerusalem, a ministry statement said without further details. The embattled leader faces a range of graft allegations, from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for favourable coverage. Netanyahu, who has been in power since 2009, strongly denies all the charges. It comes as he fights for his political future with the prospect of a third election in less than twelve months. Neither he nor centrist rival Benny Gantz have been able to form a governing coalition after September polls left them nearly neck and neck. The corruption allegations, which have been under investigation for several years, are widely seen as a crucial issue for his political future. An indictment might permanently damage Netanyahu's political career, whereas a reprieve could give him a new lease of life.

Benjamin Netanyahu faces graft indictment ruling at 1730 GMT: Ministry

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rockets-fired-from-syria-intercepted-israel-army-263080">air defences destroyed missiles</a> fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it&nbsp;was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning.

"We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force &amp; Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night," the Israel Defense Forces tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force &amp; Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night.
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"During our strike of Iranian &amp; Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defence missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defence batteries were destroyed," it said in its tweet, adding, "We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel."

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During our strike of Iranian &amp; Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defense missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defense batteries were destroyed.
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"We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria," Israel's Army added.

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We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel. 
 
We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria.
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Israel's military had said on Tuesday&nbsp;its missile defence system had shot down four rockets fired from Syria.

"Four launches were identified from Syria towards Israeli territory which were intercepted by the Israeli air defence systems," the army had said. "No hits on Israeli communities were identified."

The Israeli strikes come as tensions have increased after in Gaza after the Israeli defence force killed an &nbsp;Islamic Jihad leader a fortnight ago. The Islamic Jihad fired several hundred rockets at Israel as Netayanhu's government retaliated with airstrikes and missiles aimed at Gaza militants.

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's air defences destroyed missiles fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning.

After Syria's state news agency reported the country's air defences destroyed missiles fired from Israel, the Israeli army confirmed it was aimed at Syrian and Iranian "terror targets" near Damascus on Wednesday morning. "We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force & Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night," the Israel Defense Forces tweeted. #BREAKING: We just carried out wide-scale strikes of Iranian Quds Force & Syrian Armed Forces targets in Syria in response to the rockets fired at Israel by an Iranian force in Syria last night. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × "During our strike of Iranian & Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defence missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defence batteries were destroyed," it said in its tweet, adding, "We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel." During our strike of Iranian & Syrian terror targets, a Syrian air defense missile was fired despite clear warnings to refrain from such fire. As a result, a number of Syrian aerial defense batteries were destroyed. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × "We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria," Israel's Army added. We hold the Syrian regime responsible for the actions that take place in Syrian territory and warn them against allowing further attacks against Israel. We will continue operating firmly and for as long as necessary against the Iranian entrenchment in Syria. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 20, 2019 × Israel's military had said on Tuesday its missile defence system had shot down four rockets fired from Syria. "Four launches were identified from Syria towards Israeli territory which were intercepted by the Israeli air defence systems," the army had said. "No hits on Israeli communities were identified." The Israeli strikes come as tensions have increased after in Gaza after the Israeli defence force killed an Islamic Jihad leader a fortnight ago. The Islamic Jihad fired several hundred rockets at Israel as Netayanhu's government retaliated with airstrikes and missiles aimed at Gaza militants.

We carried out strikes on Iran's Quds Force, Syrian targets: Israel army

The Vatican spoke out on Wednesday against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-policy-shift-united-states-backs-israeli-settlements-on-west-bank-263029">United States' decision </a>to no longer consider Israeli settlements illegal, joining stiff international criticism of the policy reversal.

Without naming the US, the Holy See said in a statement that "recent decisions ... risk undermining further the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and the already fragile regional stability."

"The Holy See reiterates its position of a two-state solution for two peoples, as the only way to reach a complete solution to this age-old conflict," the Vatican said.&nbsp;

On Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the Israeli settlements were "not, per se, inconsistent with international law," breaking with UN Security Council resolutions declaring the settlements to be illegal as they are built on occupied Palestinian land.&nbsp;

The policy shift puts the US at odds with virtually the whole of the rest of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-faces-palestinian-international-criticism-of-israel-settlement-move-263219">international community</a>, and criticism came on Tuesday from the European Union, the United Nations and the Arab League. &nbsp;

Courts in Israel have declared most major settlements legal.&nbsp;

More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in east Jerusalem and the West Bank, alongside more than three million Palestinians. The settlements remain one of the thorniest issues in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.&nbsp;

The Holy See said it supported Israel's right to live in peace and security within the borders that are recognised by the international community and supported "the same right that belongs to the Palestinian people, which must be recognised, respected and implemented."

Israel has welcomed the US decision, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying he was "very moved" by Pompeo's announcement.

US President Donald Trump's administration had "corrected a historic injustice and lined up with truth and justice," Netanyahu said.

Pope Francis, who arrived on Wednesday in Thailand ahead of a visit to Japan, has not himself directly addressed the issue.

The Vatican spoke out on Wednesday against the United States' decision to no longer consider Israeli settlements illegal, joining stiff international criticism of the policy reversal.

The Vatican spoke out on Wednesday against the United States' decision to no longer consider Israeli settlements illegal, joining stiff international criticism of the policy reversal. Without naming the US, the Holy See said in a statement that "recent decisions ... risk undermining further the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and the already fragile regional stability." "The Holy See reiterates its position of a two-state solution for two peoples, as the only way to reach a complete solution to this age-old conflict," the Vatican said. On Monday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the Israeli settlements were "not, per se, inconsistent with international law," breaking with UN Security Council resolutions declaring the settlements to be illegal as they are built on occupied Palestinian land. The policy shift puts the US at odds with virtually the whole of the rest of the international community, and criticism came on Tuesday from the European Union, the United Nations and the Arab League. Courts in Israel have declared most major settlements legal. More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in east Jerusalem and the West Bank, alongside more than three million Palestinians. The settlements remain one of the thorniest issues in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Holy See said it supported Israel's right to live in peace and security within the borders that are recognised by the international community and supported "the same right that belongs to the Palestinian people, which must be recognised, respected and implemented." Israel has welcomed the US decision, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying he was "very moved" by Pompeo's announcement. US President Donald Trump's administration had "corrected a historic injustice and lined up with truth and justice," Netanyahu said. Pope Francis, who arrived on Wednesday in Thailand ahead of a visit to Japan, has not himself directly addressed the issue.

Vatican criticises US policy shift on Israeli settlements

Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu vows to annex Jordan valley a day after U.S. stance. Israeli Military occupies Jordan valley since 1967. Around 65,000 Palestinians live in the Jordan valley. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

WION Dispatch: Netanyahu's push to annex Jordan valley

Israeli kingmaker Avigdor Lieberman refused to support <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-suffers-defeat-in-failing-to-form-israeli-government-257515">Benjamin Netanyahu </a>or rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gantz-meets-netanyahu-as-deadlock-continues-post-elections-258422">Benny Gantz </a>for prime minister, pushing the Jewish country closer to the third round of elections in a year.&nbsp;

Lieberman, a right-wing nationalist leader said that both Netanyahu and Gantz have not done enough to convince him ahead of a midnight deadline for Gantz to form a government.&nbsp;

"Both are responsible," he said. "As things stand, we are on our way to new elections."

Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party has won enough seats in the Israel elections to put either of Netanyahu or Gantz into power.

Earlier, both Netanyahu and Gantz failed to gain a clear majority yet again in the September elections. Israel's President Reuven Rivlin gave 28 days to Gantz to form the government after Netanyahu failed to garner support from other parties in a similar deadline.&nbsp;

Netanyahu and Gantz tried holding talks to form a government together with the support of Lieberman's party. However, talks failed when both leaders accused each other of non-cooperation through tweets on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, during our meeting last night, Benny Gantz refused to accept the conditions put by Avigdor Lieberman, that is, to accept the President's solution that, as Prime Minister, I will be the first in rotation," Netanyahu said.

Gantz accused Netanyahu of rejecting unity and doing "everything possible" for another round of elections.&nbsp;

"Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting unity and will do everything possible to drag us into elections for the third time," Gantz tweeted.

Once Gantz's deadline to form a government&nbsp;is over, Israeli lawmakers will get 21 days to propose a candidate who has to establish majority to the president. Once this deadline of 21 days comes to end, the road for another round of elections in Israel will become clear.&nbsp;

Israeli kingmaker Avigdor Lieberman refused to support Benjamin Netanyahu or rival Benny Gantz for prime minister, pushing the Jewish country closer to the third round of elections in a year.

Israeli kingmaker Avigdor Lieberman refused to support Benjamin Netanyahu or rival Benny Gantz for prime minister, pushing the Jewish country closer to the third round of elections in a year. Lieberman, a right-wing nationalist leader said that both Netanyahu and Gantz have not done enough to convince him ahead of a midnight deadline for Gantz to form a government. "Both are responsible," he said. "As things stand, we are on our way to new elections." Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party has won enough seats in the Israel elections to put either of Netanyahu or Gantz into power. Earlier, both Netanyahu and Gantz failed to gain a clear majority yet again in the September elections. Israel's President Reuven Rivlin gave 28 days to Gantz to form the government after Netanyahu failed to garner support from other parties in a similar deadline. Netanyahu and Gantz tried holding talks to form a government together with the support of Lieberman's party. However, talks failed when both leaders accused each other of non-cooperation through tweets on Wednesday. "Unfortunately, during our meeting last night, Benny Gantz refused to accept the conditions put by Avigdor Lieberman, that is, to accept the President's solution that, as Prime Minister, I will be the first in rotation," Netanyahu said. Gantz accused Netanyahu of rejecting unity and doing "everything possible" for another round of elections. "Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting unity and will do everything possible to drag us into elections for the third time," Gantz tweeted. Once Gantz's deadline to form a government is over, Israeli lawmakers will get 21 days to propose a candidate who has to establish majority to the president. Once this deadline of 21 days comes to end, the road for another round of elections in Israel will become clear.

Israeli kingmaker refuses support to Netanyahu or Gantz as country set for third elections in a year

A coalition government or new elections? Israeli incumbent prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-encouraging-a-nuclear-race-249181">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> and rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192">Benny Gantz</a> traded blame over faltering talks Wednesday ahead of a midnight deadline.

Former military general Gantz has until 11:59 pm (2159 GMT) to cut a coalition deal, or the country will edge closer to holding the third round of elections in a year.

Right-wing Netanyahu and centrist Gantz were nearly deadlocked after September elections, with neither able to command a majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament.

Netanyahu was first given 28 days to form a coalition government but failed, so President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/israeli-president-starts-process-of-selecting-next-pm-210524">Reuven Rivlin</a> granted Gantz a similar timeframe.

Netanyahu and Gantz have been in talks over establishing a unity government with Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist party, a deal that would see the two men rotate the premiership.

But tweets from Netanyahu and Gantz on Wednesday implied the talks had broken down.

"Unfortunately, during our meeting last night, Benny Gantz refused to accept the conditions put by Avigdor Lieberman, that is, to accept the President's solution that, as Prime Minister, I will be the first in rotation," Netanyahu said.

Gantz for his part accused Netanyahu of intransigence.

"Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting unity and will do everything possible to drag us into elections for the third time," Gantz tweeted.

With the hours ticking down, Gantz pledged to continue seeking a deal.

"Any attempt to predict the outcome of Benny Gantz's mandate is a suicide mission," columnist Ben Caspit wrote in the Maariv daily Wednesday.

"The path towards establishing a government in Israel has never been at a greater impasse."

If Gantz is unable to cut a deal by Wednesday, lawmakers have 21 days to propose a candidate capable of forming a majority to the president.

If that period passes without a breakthrough, a third election becomes inevitable.

Polls in April also led to a stalemate in a political system reliant on coalition building.

Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party has eight parliamentary seats and his backing could be enough to put either Netanyahu's right-wing or Gantz's centrist coalitions into power.

But the former defence minister has proved a reluctant kingmaker.

He has been wary of backing Gantz, as even if he did, they would fall short of a majority, needing at least the tacit support of the Arab Joint List to govern.&nbsp;

But Lieberman, a right-winger known for his tough rhetoric towards Gaza, has reiterated his opposition to allying with Arabs.

He also accuses Netanyahu of being captive to the whims of ultra-Orthodox Jews, who make up around 10 per cent of the population, objecting to the community's exemption from military service.

Netanyahu, who has been in power since 2009, is also facing corruption allegations that could threaten his political career.

Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit is due to decide by December whether to charge Netanyahu over a series of graft accusations he denies.

An indictment might permanently damage Netanyahu's support, whereas a reprieve could give him a new lease of life.

All sides say they are committed to avoiding new elections, but Caspit said he thought it was unlikely.

"We are going to need a miracle to avert a third election either that or a bold, surprising and courageous decision by one of the players."

However, Kan Radio's political correspondent Yoav Krakovsky said he expected Lieberman to eventually back a narrow right-wing Netanyahu government, but with significant concessions, including from the ultra-Orthodox parties.

A coalition government or new elections? Israeli incumbent prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz traded blame over faltering talks Wednesday ahead of a midnight deadline.

A coalition government or new elections? Israeli incumbent prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz traded blame over faltering talks Wednesday ahead of a midnight deadline. Former military general Gantz has until 11:59 pm (2159 GMT) to cut a coalition deal, or the country will edge closer to holding the third round of elections in a year. Right-wing Netanyahu and centrist Gantz were nearly deadlocked after September elections, with neither able to command a majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament. Netanyahu was first given 28 days to form a coalition government but failed, so President Reuven Rivlin granted Gantz a similar timeframe. Netanyahu and Gantz have been in talks over establishing a unity government with Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist party, a deal that would see the two men rotate the premiership. But tweets from Netanyahu and Gantz on Wednesday implied the talks had broken down. "Unfortunately, during our meeting last night, Benny Gantz refused to accept the conditions put by Avigdor Lieberman, that is, to accept the President's solution that, as Prime Minister, I will be the first in rotation," Netanyahu said. Gantz for his part accused Netanyahu of intransigence. "Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting unity and will do everything possible to drag us into elections for the third time," Gantz tweeted. With the hours ticking down, Gantz pledged to continue seeking a deal. "Any attempt to predict the outcome of Benny Gantz's mandate is a suicide mission," columnist Ben Caspit wrote in the Maariv daily Wednesday. "The path towards establishing a government in Israel has never been at a greater impasse." If Gantz is unable to cut a deal by Wednesday, lawmakers have 21 days to propose a candidate capable of forming a majority to the president. If that period passes without a breakthrough, a third election becomes inevitable. Polls in April also led to a stalemate in a political system reliant on coalition building. Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party has eight parliamentary seats and his backing could be enough to put either Netanyahu's right-wing or Gantz's centrist coalitions into power. But the former defence minister has proved a reluctant kingmaker. He has been wary of backing Gantz, as even if he did, they would fall short of a majority, needing at least the tacit support of the Arab Joint List to govern. But Lieberman, a right-winger known for his tough rhetoric towards Gaza, has reiterated his opposition to allying with Arabs. He also accuses Netanyahu of being captive to the whims of ultra-Orthodox Jews, who make up around 10 per cent of the population, objecting to the community's exemption from military service. Netanyahu, who has been in power since 2009, is also facing corruption allegations that could threaten his political career. Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit is due to decide by December whether to charge Netanyahu over a series of graft accusations he denies. An indictment might permanently damage Netanyahu's support, whereas a reprieve could give him a new lease of life. All sides say they are committed to avoiding new elections, but Caspit said he thought it was unlikely. "We are going to need a miracle to avert a third election either that or a bold, surprising and courageous decision by one of the players." However, Kan Radio's political correspondent Yoav Krakovsky said he expected Lieberman to eventually back a narrow right-wing Netanyahu government, but with significant concessions, including from the ultra-Orthodox parties.

Deadline looms as Israeli politicians seek to avoid third election

U.S. policy shift a boost to Netanyahu. Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu vows to annex Jordan valley after U.S. stance. Israeli Military occupies Jordan valley since 1967. 65,000 Palestinians live in the Jordan valley. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

U.S. policy shift a boost to Netanyahu

The United States on Monday (November 18) effectively backed Israel's right to build Jewish settlements on the occupied West Bank by abandoning its four-decade position that they were "inconsistent with international law."

"West Bank settlements are not inconsistent with International Law" - Pompeo

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-protest-moves-to-grant-netanyahu-immunity-limit-supreme-court-221711">Israelis </a>hailed a US announcement that it no longer considers settlements in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-health-ministry-a-palestinian-shot-dead-in-west-bank-clashes-261418">West Bank </a>and annexed east Jerusalem illegal, but the Palestinians pledged fresh measures to oppose it Tuesday.

Most Israeli politicians and media joined settler groups in welcoming the announcement made by US Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258">Mike Pompeo </a>on Monday.

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-gives-rare-tv-interview-to-address-allegations-205334">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> said it reflected "a historical truth that the Jewish people are not foreign colonialists in Judaea and Samaria," using the biblical terms for the southern and northern West Bank.

Pompeo said that after legal consultation they had concluded the establishment of settlements was "not, per se, inconsistent with international law".

He said that the United States was not necessarily considering the settlements legal either but instead would defer to the judgement of Israeli courts.

The decision is the latest in a series of pro-Israeli moves by Donald Trump's administration in recent years, including recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and recognising Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from Syria in the Six-Day War of 1967.

Watch: Reversal of US on it's long standing policy on Israeli settlements

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More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, alongside more than three million Palestinians.

The statement puts the United States at odds with virtually the whole of the rest of the international community and breaks with UN Security Council resolutions declaring the settlements to be illegal as they are built on occupied land.

The Arab League criticised the announcement Tuesday, calling it an "extremely adverse development."

The only two Arab states to have signed peace treaties with Israel Egypt and Jordan&nbsp;both sharply criticised the US change of policy, with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warning of its "dangerous consequences".

The direct impact on the ground may be limited but analysts say it will further embolden the settlement movement and may fend off potential legal moves against Israel.

The Palestinian Authority which considers the US biased and has rejected the Trump administration as a mediator if peace talks are ever revived&nbsp;denounced the latest decision.

Chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said the Palestinians would take a series of measures to oppose the move.

"We began deliberations in the UN to present a draft resolution in the Security Council," he said Tuesday.

"We expect a (US) veto but we will do it. Let the United States veto international law.

"We are going to the (UN) General Assembly and we will ask. the International Criminal Court to open an official judicial investigation with Israeli officials concerning settlements."

The US change of policy was widely seen as an attempt to change the legal context for a series of suits and complaints against Israel.

The European Union’s top court last week ruled that EU countries must identify products made in Israeli settlements on their labels.

The International Criminal Court is expected to take key decisions on two cases against Israel in the coming weeks, including on whether Israeli settlements are a war crime according to international law.

Ofer Zalzberg, senior Middle East analyst with the International Crisis Group think tank, said the US was trying to weaken the legal pressure on its ally.

"The Trump administration is trying to unravel international consensus on this issue of the illegality of settlements," Zalzberg said.

"It adds to a deepening politicisation of international law, making it appear to be malleable to political opinions."

Israeli settlers, who overwhelmingly form part of Netanyahu's right-wing constituency, said the US policy change paved the way for annexation of the settlements."We applaud the Trump administration for revealing the truth about the standing of Israeli communities in Judaea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley," the Yesha settlements council said.

"After the American recognition, we must move to the next stage applying sovereignty to Israeli settlements."

Erekat said it was only the latest move by the US to try and force the Palestinians to capitulate and give up their claims to an independent state.

"They wanted us on our knees and they used every trick internally, externally, regionally to put pressure on us. We stand tall and we will stand tall."

Israelis hailed a US announcement that it no longer considers settlements in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem illegal, but the Palestinians pledged fresh measures to oppose it Tuesday.

Israelis hailed a US announcement that it no longer considers settlements in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem illegal, but the Palestinians pledged fresh measures to oppose it Tuesday. Most Israeli politicians and media joined settler groups in welcoming the announcement made by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it reflected "a historical truth that the Jewish people are not foreign colonialists in Judaea and Samaria," using the biblical terms for the southern and northern West Bank. Pompeo said that after legal consultation they had concluded the establishment of settlements was "not, per se, inconsistent with international law". He said that the United States was not necessarily considering the settlements legal either but instead would defer to the judgement of Israeli courts. The decision is the latest in a series of pro-Israeli moves by Donald Trump's administration in recent years, including recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and recognising Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, seized from Syria in the Six-Day War of 1967. Watch: Reversal of US on it's long standing policy on Israeli settlements × More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, alongside more than three million Palestinians. The statement puts the United States at odds with virtually the whole of the rest of the international community and breaks with UN Security Council resolutions declaring the settlements to be illegal as they are built on occupied land. The Arab League criticised the announcement Tuesday, calling it an "extremely adverse development." The only two Arab states to have signed peace treaties with Israel Egypt and Jordan both sharply criticised the US change of policy, with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warning of its "dangerous consequences". The direct impact on the ground may be limited but analysts say it will further embolden the settlement movement and may fend off potential legal moves against Israel. The Palestinian Authority which considers the US biased and has rejected the Trump administration as a mediator if peace talks are ever revived denounced the latest decision. Chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said the Palestinians would take a series of measures to oppose the move. "We began deliberations in the UN to present a draft resolution in the Security Council," he said Tuesday. "We expect a (US) veto but we will do it. Let the United States veto international law. "We are going to the (UN) General Assembly and we will ask. the International Criminal Court to open an official judicial investigation with Israeli officials concerning settlements." The US change of policy was widely seen as an attempt to change the legal context for a series of suits and complaints against Israel. The European Union’s top court last week ruled that EU countries must identify products made in Israeli settlements on their labels. The International Criminal Court is expected to take key decisions on two cases against Israel in the coming weeks, including on whether Israeli settlements are a war crime according to international law. Ofer Zalzberg, senior Middle East analyst with the International Crisis Group think tank, said the US was trying to weaken the legal pressure on its ally. "The Trump administration is trying to unravel international consensus on this issue of the illegality of settlements," Zalzberg said. "It adds to a deepening politicisation of international law, making it appear to be malleable to political opinions." Israeli settlers, who overwhelmingly form part of Netanyahu's right-wing constituency, said the US policy change paved the way for annexation of the settlements."We applaud the Trump administration for revealing the truth about the standing of Israeli communities in Judaea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley," the Yesha settlements council said. "After the American recognition, we must move to the next stage applying sovereignty to Israeli settlements." Erekat said it was only the latest move by the US to try and force the Palestinians to capitulate and give up their claims to an independent state. "They wanted us on our knees and they used every trick internally, externally, regionally to put pressure on us. We stand tall and we will stand tall."

Israelis celebrate, Palestinians vow measures to oppose as US backs settlements in West Bank

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