How Islamic Jihad tried to blunt Israel’s Iron Dome with ‘indigenous’ Buraq 120 rockets

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Why the India-Israel alliance matters?

How Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system blunts rockets from Gaza

Exchanges of fire triggered by Israel's targeted killing of a top militant in Gaza raged for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strikes-gaza-two-more-palestinians-killed-death-toll-rises-to-18-261808">second day Wednesday</a> and showed little sign of easing, with 22 Palestinians killed.

Fresh rocket barrages were fired at Israel, which responded with strikes on what it said were Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket-launching squads in the Gaza Strip.

Air raid sirens wailed and fireballs exploded as air defence missiles intercepted rockets, sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters.

In Gaza, residents surveyed damage and mourned the dead outside a mortuary and at funerals.

UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov was expected in Cairo for talks on halting the fighting, a diplomatic source said, but a source close to the discussions warned the risk of further escalation remained high.

In comments Wednesday morning, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Islamic Jihad must stop its stop rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows".

He reiterated his warning that "this could take time" and said Israel would respond to attacks "without mercy."

Islamic Jihad spokesman Musab al-Barayem said the group was not interested in mediation for now as it responded to the killing of one of its commanders.&nbsp;

Israel killed senior Islamic Jihad commander Baha Abu al-Ata and his wife Asma in a targeted strike early Tuesday, prompting barrages of rocket fire in revenge and retaliatory Israeli airstrikes.

According to Israel, Ata was responsible for rocket fire at Israel as well as other attacks and was planning more violence, with the military calling him a "ticking bomb."

The flare-up raised fears of a new conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza, who have fought three wars since 2008.

A total of 22 Palestinians have been killed so far, including Ata and his wife, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.

Islamic Jihad confirmed that the dead included other members of its armed wing.

220 rockets

Since Israel's killing of Ata in what was believed to be a drone strike, at least 220 rockets have been fired into Israel from Gaza and dozens have been intercepted by air defences, according to the army.

There have been no Israeli deaths, though damage has been caused and one rocket narrowly missed cars on a busy highway.

Israeli medics said they had treated 48 people with light wounds, while schools were closed in areas near the Gaza border for a second day running.

On Tuesday, school closures included the commercial capital Tel Aviv.

Schools in the blockaded Gaza Strip, an enclave of two million people, have been closed since Tuesday.

Unusually and in a sign it was seeking to avoid a wider conflict, Israel's announced targets were confined to Islamic Jihad sites and not those belonging to Hamas.

It normally holds Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules the Gaza Strip, responsible for all rocket fire from the enclave as the territory's de facto rulers.

Israeli analysts were quick to highlight the change of approach.

"For the first time in the current era, Israel drew a distinction between Hamas and Islamic Jihad," commentator Ben Caspit wrote in Israeli newspaper Maariv.

"By so doing, Israel deviated from its iron-clad principle that Hamas, as the sovereign power in Gaza, has to pay the price for any action taken by anyone in the Gaza Strip. That is now no longer the case."&nbsp;

Islamic Jihad is the second-most-powerful militant group in the Gaza Strip after Hamas.

The flare-up comes at a politically sensitive time for Israel.

A September 17 general election ended in a deadlock and a new government is yet to be formed.

It was the second election since April when polls also ended inconclusively.

The violence drew international calls for calm.

Britain's foreign office said "we call on all sides to rapidly de-escalate the situation, and support the UN and Egyptian efforts to achieve that objective."

Exchanges of fire triggered by Israel's targeted killing of a top militant in Gaza raged for a second day Wednesday and showed little sign of easing, with 22 Palestinians killed.

Exchanges of fire triggered by Israel's targeted killing of a top militant in Gaza raged for a second day Wednesday and showed little sign of easing, with 22 Palestinians killed. Fresh rocket barrages were fired at Israel, which responded with strikes on what it said were Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket-launching squads in the Gaza Strip. Air raid sirens wailed and fireballs exploded as air defence missiles intercepted rockets, sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters. In Gaza, residents surveyed damage and mourned the dead outside a mortuary and at funerals. UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov was expected in Cairo for talks on halting the fighting, a diplomatic source said, but a source close to the discussions warned the risk of further escalation remained high. In comments Wednesday morning, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Islamic Jihad must stop its stop rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows". He reiterated his warning that "this could take time" and said Israel would respond to attacks "without mercy." Islamic Jihad spokesman Musab al-Barayem said the group was not interested in mediation for now as it responded to the killing of one of its commanders. Israel killed senior Islamic Jihad commander Baha Abu al-Ata and his wife Asma in a targeted strike early Tuesday, prompting barrages of rocket fire in revenge and retaliatory Israeli airstrikes. According to Israel, Ata was responsible for rocket fire at Israel as well as other attacks and was planning more violence, with the military calling him a "ticking bomb." The flare-up raised fears of a new conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza, who have fought three wars since 2008. A total of 22 Palestinians have been killed so far, including Ata and his wife, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. Islamic Jihad confirmed that the dead included other members of its armed wing. 220 rockets Since Israel's killing of Ata in what was believed to be a drone strike, at least 220 rockets have been fired into Israel from Gaza and dozens have been intercepted by air defences, according to the army. There have been no Israeli deaths, though damage has been caused and one rocket narrowly missed cars on a busy highway. Israeli medics said they had treated 48 people with light wounds, while schools were closed in areas near the Gaza border for a second day running. On Tuesday, school closures included the commercial capital Tel Aviv. Schools in the blockaded Gaza Strip, an enclave of two million people, have been closed since Tuesday. Unusually and in a sign it was seeking to avoid a wider conflict, Israel's announced targets were confined to Islamic Jihad sites and not those belonging to Hamas. It normally holds Hamas, the Islamist movement that rules the Gaza Strip, responsible for all rocket fire from the enclave as the territory's de facto rulers. Israeli analysts were quick to highlight the change of approach. "For the first time in the current era, Israel drew a distinction between Hamas and Islamic Jihad," commentator Ben Caspit wrote in Israeli newspaper Maariv. "By so doing, Israel deviated from its iron-clad principle that Hamas, as the sovereign power in Gaza, has to pay the price for any action taken by anyone in the Gaza Strip. That is now no longer the case." Islamic Jihad is the second-most-powerful militant group in the Gaza Strip after Hamas. The flare-up comes at a politically sensitive time for Israel. A September 17 general election ended in a deadlock and a new government is yet to be formed. It was the second election since April when polls also ended inconclusively. The violence drew international calls for calm. Britain's foreign office said "we call on all sides to rapidly de-escalate the situation, and support the UN and Egyptian efforts to achieve that objective."

22 Palestinians killed as deadly Israel-Gaza escalation rages for second day

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said fighting with Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants that erupted after Israel<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-islamic-jihads-top-commander-in-missile-attack-261537"> killed their top field commander</a> in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday could prove protracted.

"Israel is not interested in escalation, but we will do everything required to protect ourselves," Netanyahu told reporters at military headquarters. "This could take time. What is needed is stamina and cool-headedness."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said fighting with Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants that erupted after Israel killed their top field commander in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday could prove protracted.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said fighting with Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants that erupted after Israel killed their top field commander in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday could prove protracted. "Israel is not interested in escalation, but we will do everything required to protect ourselves," Netanyahu told reporters at military headquarters. "This could take time. What is needed is stamina and cool-headedness."

Netanyahu says Israel-Gaza fighting 'could take time'

Israeli challenger Benny Gantz met Sunday with incumbent prime<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192"> minister Benjamin Netanyahu </a>for talks to try and put together a coalition government in the wake of two inconclusive general elections.

It was their first round of direct talks since president Reuven Rivlin on Wednesday tasked ex-military chief Gantz with trying to form a government.

Following the deadlocked elections on September 17, Netanyahu had tried to form a coalition, but finally gave up on October 21 -- his second such failure this year.

A joint statement from Netanyahu's Likud and Gantz's Blue and White alliance after Sunday's meeting, however, did not herald any breakthrough.

"The two discussed the structure of political options available," the English-language statement said.

"Another meeting is anticipated between the two."

Earlier Sunday the side's negotiating teams met in what Blue and White called "good spirits".

The joint statement released later said they "would continue to communicate". &nbsp;

Both Likud and Blue and White say they want a unity government, but disagree on how to achieve it.

Likud has been seeking to negotiate based on a compromise set out by Rivlin that takes into account the possibility the premier will be indicted for corruption in the coming weeks.

It could see him remain prime minister for now, but step aside at some point later as he combats the charges.

Gantz would take over as acting premier under such a scenario.

Blue and White says Gantz should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement since his party won the most seats, finishing with 33 compared to Likud's 32.

Whoever wants to govern needs to find partners with which to control a majority of at least 61 seats in the 120-member Israeli parliament.

Israeli challenger Benny Gantz met Sunday with incumbent prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for talks to try and put together a coalition government in the wake of two inconclusive general elections.

Israeli challenger Benny Gantz met Sunday with incumbent prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for talks to try and put together a coalition government in the wake of two inconclusive general elections. It was their first round of direct talks since president Reuven Rivlin on Wednesday tasked ex-military chief Gantz with trying to form a government. Following the deadlocked elections on September 17, Netanyahu had tried to form a coalition, but finally gave up on October 21 -- his second such failure this year. A joint statement from Netanyahu's Likud and Gantz's Blue and White alliance after Sunday's meeting, however, did not herald any breakthrough. "The two discussed the structure of political options available," the English-language statement said. "Another meeting is anticipated between the two." Earlier Sunday the side's negotiating teams met in what Blue and White called "good spirits". The joint statement released later said they "would continue to communicate". Both Likud and Blue and White say they want a unity government, but disagree on how to achieve it. Likud has been seeking to negotiate based on a compromise set out by Rivlin that takes into account the possibility the premier will be indicted for corruption in the coming weeks. It could see him remain prime minister for now, but step aside at some point later as he combats the charges. Gantz would take over as acting premier under such a scenario. Blue and White says Gantz should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement since his party won the most seats, finishing with 33 compared to Likud's 32. Whoever wants to govern needs to find partners with which to control a majority of at least 61 seats in the 120-member Israeli parliament.

Gantz meets Netanyahu as deadlock continues post elections

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said US President Donald Trump's announcement of the death of Islamic State group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in neighbouring Syria was "an important milestone".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday said US President Donald Trump's announcement of the death of Islamic State group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in neighbouring Syria was "an important milestone". "I want to congratulate President Trump on the impressive achievement of bringing about the elimination of al-Baghdadi," Netanyahu said on a visit to an Israeli air force base in remarks broadcast by army radio. "This reflects the united resolve of the free countries led by the United States to fight the forces of terror, the terror organisations and the terrorist states," a later statement from the premier's office quoted him as saying. "This is an important milestone, but it's part of a longer battle which me must win." Trump said earlier that Baghdadi died "like a dog," in a daring, nighttime raid by US special forces deep in northwest Syria. In a televised address from the White House Trump said that US forces killed a "large number" of Islamic State group militants during the raid which culminated in cornering Baghdadi in a tunnel, where he set off a suicide vest. He said that the raid -- which required flying more than an hour by helicopter in both directions from an undisclosed base -- had been accomplished by help from Russia, Syria, Turkey and Iraq.

Death of IS chief 'important milestone': Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu gave up his effort to form a new government on October 21 after failing to secure a majority coalition, creating an opportunity for centrist rival Benny Gantz to replace Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

Benjamin Netanyahu fails to form government

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suffered an important defeat in his bid to hang on as premier by failing to form a new government, but his opponent faced similar difficulties on Tuesday.

Ex-military chief Benny Gantz is now expected to be given the chance to try to negotiate a coalition by President Reuven Rivlin, but a deadlock following September 17 polls remains and yet another election cannot be ruled out.

It would be the third election within a year after Netanyahu also failed to form a coalition after April polls.

Netanyahu's decision to inform Rivlin on Monday night that he has been unable to form a government by no means signalled the end of his tenure as Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

He remains premier as long as no new government is formed, and a number of scenarios exist that could see him retain his post even as he faces the possibility of corruption charges in the weeks ahead.

One of the few things clear in Israel's post-electoral morass was that Netanyahu, who celebrated his 70th birthday on Monday, was not giving up.

But his announcement was a landmark moment in Israeli politics since Netanyahu has been given the president's mandate to form a government after every election since 2009.

When announcing his decision with a social media video, Netanyahu sought to blame Gantz since the ex-military chief has refused to negotiate on the premier's preferred terms.

One of Netanyahu's closest allies, Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz, argued Tuesday that the prime minister had been "obstructed" in negotiations.

"Disagreements don't prevent negotiations," he told Israel's army radio.

"To the contrary, one comes to negotiations when one begins with disagreements. Therefore, if Benny Gantz offers Netanyahu to sit down with him one-on-one, I'm confident that Netanyahu will sit with him."

Israeli public television reporters caught up with Gantz outside his home after a workout on Tuesday morning.

"We're always optimistic, it's a way of life," he said from behind the wheel of his car, dressed in shorts and a T-shirt.

A senior member of his centrist Blue and White alliance was strongly critical of Netanyahu.

"What has Bibi done with the mandate to build a government? Four weeks of nothing," Ofer Shelah said on Twitter, using Netanyahu's nickname.

"He passed the time in order to continue as prime minister for a little while longer ... Bibi wants elections. That is obvious."

Rivlin said Monday night he intends to ask Gantz to try to form a government, but he can take up to three days to hear out the parties elected to parliament before officially tasking him with doing so.

The Blue and White leader had no political experience before he mounted his challenge to the prime minister he once worked with as military chief of staff but has now found himself at the doorstep of power.

Whether he can enter the office Netanyahu has held for a total of more than 13 years however is a challenge that could bedevil even the most skilled politicians.

The deadlock following September 17 polls will likely require major concessions or a decision by members of Netanyahu's right-wing Likud to abandon him, and both of those options appear a long way off for now.

Both Likud and Blue and White say they want a unity government, but they are divided on how.

Likud has been seeking to negotiate based on a compromise set out by Rivlin that takes into account the possibility the premier will be indicted for corruption in the upcoming weeks.

It could see him remain prime minister for now, but step aside at some point later as he combats the charges.

Gantz would take over as acting premier under such a scenario.

Blue and White say Gantz should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement since his party won the most seats, finishing with 33 compared to Likud's 32.

Gantz also says Blue and White cannot serve in a government with a prime minister facing serious indictment.

Netanyahu has added a further complication to the coalition talks.

He has pledged not to abandon the smaller right-wing and religious parties that support him in parliament, saying he represents the entire bloc in coalition negotiations.

That condition is also unacceptable to Gantz, who says it would mean Blue and White joining a Netanyahu government as a junior member.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suffered an important defeat in his bid to hang on as premier by failing to form a new government, but his opponent faced similar difficulties on Tuesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suffered an important defeat in his bid to hang on as premier by failing to form a new government, but his opponent faced similar difficulties on Tuesday. Ex-military chief Benny Gantz is now expected to be given the chance to try to negotiate a coalition by President Reuven Rivlin, but a deadlock following September 17 polls remains and yet another election cannot be ruled out. It would be the third election within a year after Netanyahu also failed to form a coalition after April polls. Netanyahu's decision to inform Rivlin on Monday night that he has been unable to form a government by no means signalled the end of his tenure as Israel's longest-serving prime minister. He remains premier as long as no new government is formed, and a number of scenarios exist that could see him retain his post even as he faces the possibility of corruption charges in the weeks ahead. One of the few things clear in Israel's post-electoral morass was that Netanyahu, who celebrated his 70th birthday on Monday, was not giving up. But his announcement was a landmark moment in Israeli politics since Netanyahu has been given the president's mandate to form a government after every election since 2009. When announcing his decision with a social media video, Netanyahu sought to blame Gantz since the ex-military chief has refused to negotiate on the premier's preferred terms. One of Netanyahu's closest allies, Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz, argued Tuesday that the prime minister had been "obstructed" in negotiations. "Disagreements don't prevent negotiations," he told Israel's army radio. "To the contrary, one comes to negotiations when one begins with disagreements. Therefore, if Benny Gantz offers Netanyahu to sit down with him one-on-one, I'm confident that Netanyahu will sit with him." Israeli public television reporters caught up with Gantz outside his home after a workout on Tuesday morning. "We're always optimistic, it's a way of life," he said from behind the wheel of his car, dressed in shorts and a T-shirt. A senior member of his centrist Blue and White alliance was strongly critical of Netanyahu. "What has Bibi done with the mandate to build a government? Four weeks of nothing," Ofer Shelah said on Twitter, using Netanyahu's nickname. "He passed the time in order to continue as prime minister for a little while longer ... Bibi wants elections. That is obvious." Rivlin said Monday night he intends to ask Gantz to try to form a government, but he can take up to three days to hear out the parties elected to parliament before officially tasking him with doing so. The Blue and White leader had no political experience before he mounted his challenge to the prime minister he once worked with as military chief of staff but has now found himself at the doorstep of power. Whether he can enter the office Netanyahu has held for a total of more than 13 years however is a challenge that could bedevil even the most skilled politicians. The deadlock following September 17 polls will likely require major concessions or a decision by members of Netanyahu's right-wing Likud to abandon him, and both of those options appear a long way off for now. Both Likud and Blue and White say they want a unity government, but they are divided on how. Likud has been seeking to negotiate based on a compromise set out by Rivlin that takes into account the possibility the premier will be indicted for corruption in the upcoming weeks. It could see him remain prime minister for now, but step aside at some point later as he combats the charges. Gantz would take over as acting premier under such a scenario. Blue and White say Gantz should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement since his party won the most seats, finishing with 33 compared to Likud's 32. Gantz also says Blue and White cannot serve in a government with a prime minister facing serious indictment. Netanyahu has added a further complication to the coalition talks. He has pledged not to abandon the smaller right-wing and religious parties that support him in parliament, saying he represents the entire bloc in coalition negotiations. That condition is also unacceptable to Gantz, who says it would mean Blue and White joining a Netanyahu government as a junior member.

Netanyahu suffers defeat in failing to form Israeli government

When Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Riyadh this week for the second time in 12 years, his call for endorsement of his proposal to replace the US defence umbrella in the Gulf with a multilateral security architecture is likely to rank high on his agenda.

So is Putin’s push for Saudi Arabia to finalise the acquisition of Russia’s S-400 anti-missile defence system in the wake of the failure of US weaponry to intercept drones and missiles that last month struck key Saudi oil installations.

“We are ready to help Saudi Arabia protect their people. They need to make clever decisions…by deciding to buy the most advanced S-400 air-defence systems. These kinds of systems are capable of defending any kind of infrastructure in Saudi Arabia from any kind of attack,” Putin said immediately after the attacks.

Putin’s push for a multilateral security approach is helped by changing realities in the Gulf as a result of President Donald Trump’s repeated recent demonstrations of his unreliability as an ally.

Doubts about Trump have been fuelled by his reluctance to respond more forcefully to perceived Iranian provocations, including the downing of a US drone in June and the September attacks on the Saudi facilities as well as his distancing himself from Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu following last month’s elections, and most recently, the president’s leaving the Kurds to their own devices as they confront a Turkish invasion in Syria.

Framed in transactional terms in which Saudi Arabia pays for a service, Trump’s decision this week to send up to 3,000 troops and additional air defences to the kingdom is likely to do little to enhance confidence in his reliability.

By comparison, Putin, with the backing of Chinese President Xi Jinping, seems a much more reliable partner even if Riyadh differs with Moscow and Beijing on key issues, including Iran, Syria and Turkey.

“While Russia is a reliable ally, the US is not. Many in the Middle East may not approve of Moscow supporting Bashar al-Assad’s regime, but they respect Vladimir Putin for sticking by Russia’s beleaguered ally in Syria,” said Middle East scholar and commentator Mark N Katz.

In a twist of irony, Trump’s unreliability coupled with an Iran’s strategy of gradual escalation in response to the president’s imposition of harsh economic sanctions in a bid to force the Islamic republic to the negotiating table appear to have moderated what was perceived as a largely disastrous assertive and robust go-it-alone Saudi foreign and defense policy posture in recent years.

While everyone would benefit from a dialling down of tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Trump’s overall performance as the guarantor of security in the Gulf could in the longer term pave the way for a more multilateral approach to the region’s security architecture.

In the latest sign of Saudi willingness to step back from the brink, Saudi Arabia is holding back channel talks for the first time in two years with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The talks began after both sides declared partial ceasefires in the more than four-year-long Yemeni war.

The talks potentially open the door to a broader Russian-sponsored deal in the context of some understanding about non-aggression between the kingdom and Iran, in which Saudi Arabia would re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria in exchange for the Islamic republic dropping its support for the Houthis.

Restoring diplomatic relations and reversing the Arab League’s suspension of Syrian membership because of the civil war would constitute a victory for Al-Assad’s main backers, Russia and Iran. It would grant greater legitimacy to a leader viewed by significant segments of the international community as a pariah.

A Saudi-Iranian swap of Syria for Yemen could also facilitate Saudi financial contributions to the reconstruction of war-ravaged Syria. Saudi Arabia was conspicuously absent at last month’s Rebuild Syria Expo in Damascus.&nbsp;

Putin is likely to further leverage his enhanced credibility as well as Saudi-Russian cooperation in curtailing oil production to boost prices to persuade Saudi Arabia to follow through on promises to invest in Russia.

Saudi Arabia had agreed to take a stake in Russia’s Novatek Arctic-2 liquefied natural gas complex, acquire Sibur, Russia's largest petrochemical facility, and invest an additional $6 billion in future projects.

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak predicted that “about 30 agreements and contracts will be signed during President Putin’s visit to Saudi Arabia. We are working on it. These are investment projects, and the sum in question is billions of dollars.”

In anticipation of Putin’s visit, Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), said it was opening its first overseas office in Riyadh.

RDIF and the kingdom's counterpart, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), are believed to be looking at some $2.5 billion in investment in technology, medicine, infrastructure, transport and industrial production.

The Russian fund is also discussing with Aramco, the Saudi state-owned oil company, $3 billion in investments in oil services and oil and gas conversion projects.

Saudi interest in economic cooperation with Russia goes beyond economics. Ensuring that world powers have an increasing stake in the kingdom’s security is one pillar of a more multilateral regional approach. 
&nbsp;

When Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Riyadh this week for the second time in 12 years, his call for endorsement of his proposal to replace the US defence umbrella in the Gulf with a multilateral security architecture is likely to rank high on his agenda.

When Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Riyadh this week for the second time in 12 years, his call for endorsement of his proposal to replace the US defence umbrella in the Gulf with a multilateral security architecture is likely to rank high on his agenda. So is Putin’s push for Saudi Arabia to finalise the acquisition of Russia’s S-400 anti-missile defence system in the wake of the failure of US weaponry to intercept drones and missiles that last month struck key Saudi oil installations. “We are ready to help Saudi Arabia protect their people. They need to make clever decisions…by deciding to buy the most advanced S-400 air-defence systems. These kinds of systems are capable of defending any kind of infrastructure in Saudi Arabia from any kind of attack,” Putin said immediately after the attacks. Putin’s push for a multilateral security approach is helped by changing realities in the Gulf as a result of President Donald Trump’s repeated recent demonstrations of his unreliability as an ally. Doubts about Trump have been fuelled by his reluctance to respond more forcefully to perceived Iranian provocations, including the downing of a US drone in June and the September attacks on the Saudi facilities as well as his distancing himself from Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu following last month’s elections, and most recently, the president’s leaving the Kurds to their own devices as they confront a Turkish invasion in Syria. Framed in transactional terms in which Saudi Arabia pays for a service, Trump’s decision this week to send up to 3,000 troops and additional air defences to the kingdom is likely to do little to enhance confidence in his reliability. By comparison, Putin, with the backing of Chinese President Xi Jinping, seems a much more reliable partner even if Riyadh differs with Moscow and Beijing on key issues, including Iran, Syria and Turkey. “While Russia is a reliable ally, the US is not. Many in the Middle East may not approve of Moscow supporting Bashar al-Assad’s regime, but they respect Vladimir Putin for sticking by Russia’s beleaguered ally in Syria,” said Middle East scholar and commentator Mark N Katz. In a twist of irony, Trump’s unreliability coupled with an Iran’s strategy of gradual escalation in response to the president’s imposition of harsh economic sanctions in a bid to force the Islamic republic to the negotiating table appear to have moderated what was perceived as a largely disastrous assertive and robust go-it-alone Saudi foreign and defense policy posture in recent years. While everyone would benefit from a dialling down of tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Trump’s overall performance as the guarantor of security in the Gulf could in the longer term pave the way for a more multilateral approach to the region’s security architecture. In the latest sign of Saudi willingness to step back from the brink, Saudi Arabia is holding back channel talks for the first time in two years with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The talks began after both sides declared partial ceasefires in the more than four-year-long Yemeni war. The talks potentially open the door to a broader Russian-sponsored deal in the context of some understanding about non-aggression between the kingdom and Iran, in which Saudi Arabia would re-establish diplomatic relations with Syria in exchange for the Islamic republic dropping its support for the Houthis. Restoring diplomatic relations and reversing the Arab League’s suspension of Syrian membership because of the civil war would constitute a victory for Al-Assad’s main backers, Russia and Iran. It would grant greater legitimacy to a leader viewed by significant segments of the international community as a pariah. A Saudi-Iranian swap of Syria for Yemen could also facilitate Saudi financial contributions to the reconstruction of war-ravaged Syria. Saudi Arabia was conspicuously absent at last month’s Rebuild Syria Expo in Damascus. Putin is likely to further leverage his enhanced credibility as well as Saudi-Russian cooperation in curtailing oil production to boost prices to persuade Saudi Arabia to follow through on promises to invest in Russia. Saudi Arabia had agreed to take a stake in Russia’s Novatek Arctic-2 liquefied natural gas complex, acquire Sibur, Russia's largest petrochemical facility, and invest an additional $6 billion in future projects. Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak predicted that “about 30 agreements and contracts will be signed during President Putin’s visit to Saudi Arabia. We are working on it. These are investment projects, and the sum in question is billions of dollars.” In anticipation of Putin’s visit, Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), said it was opening its first overseas office in Riyadh. RDIF and the kingdom's counterpart, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), are believed to be looking at some $2.5 billion in investment in technology, medicine, infrastructure, transport and industrial production. The Russian fund is also discussing with Aramco, the Saudi state-owned oil company, $3 billion in investments in oil services and oil and gas conversion projects. Saudi interest in economic cooperation with Russia goes beyond economics. Ensuring that world powers have an increasing stake in the kingdom’s security is one pillar of a more multilateral regional approach.

Saudi Arabia's interest in Russia goes beyond economics

Benny Gantz, the main rival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has abruptly cancelled coalition talks, saying conditions were not right, media said on Tuesday.

Gantz’s centrist secular Blue and White party came first in last month’s elections — the second poll this year — winning 33 seats in the 120-member parliament. Netanyahu’s Likud took 32 seats.

With neither party holding a majority, Netanyahu has been asked by President Reuven Rivlin to try to form a unity government. The talks with Gantz’s party on Wednesday were to be his last attempt.

Likud responded saying it was "stunned" by its rival’s decision to "blow up" negotiations. Netanyahu reportedly asked his challenger to reconsider.

If the negotiations fail, Gantz is expected to be asked to put together a workable coalition government. Israel may also end up having its third snap election.

Benny Gantz, the main rival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has abruptly cancelled coalition talks, saying conditions were not right, media said on Tuesday.

Benny Gantz, the main rival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has abruptly cancelled coalition talks, saying conditions were not right, media said on Tuesday. Gantz’s centrist secular Blue and White party came first in last month’s elections — the second poll this year — winning 33 seats in the 120-member parliament. Netanyahu’s Likud took 32 seats. With neither party holding a majority, Netanyahu has been asked by President Reuven Rivlin to try to form a unity government. The talks with Gantz’s party on Wednesday were to be his last attempt. Likud responded saying it was "stunned" by its rival’s decision to "blow up" negotiations. Netanyahu reportedly asked his challenger to reconsider. If the negotiations fail, Gantz is expected to be asked to put together a workable coalition government. Israel may also end up having its third snap election.

Benjamin Netanyahu’s rival Benny Gantz calls off Israel unity government talks: Reports

Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-to-meet-centrist-rival-in-last-ditch-bid-to-form-unity-government-252696">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end.

The hearing comes as deadlocked results from a September 17 general election leave Netanyahu plotting how to survive politically and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

To do so, he will have to navigate the twin challenges of a potential corruption indictment against him in the weeks ahead and election results that give neither him nor his challenger Benny Gantz a clear path to a majority coalition.

Both will collide Wednesday when Israel's attorney general convenes a pre-indictment hearing for Netanyahu after having said he intends to charge him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

Only Netanyahu's lawyers and not the premier himself are expected to attend the closed-door hearing, which gives him a final chance to convince Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit he should not be indicted.

The hearing is to last four days, covering three separate cases in which Netanyahu is accused of acting on behalf of wealthy supporters and businessmen in exchange for gifts or favourable news coverage.

Netanyahu, who denies all the allegations, asked that the hearing be broadcast live because he has "nothing to hide."

Mandelblit dismissed the request in no uncertain terms, saying the hearing was intended to convince the legal authorities, not the public.

Following the hearing, the attorney general's deliberations on whether to issue the indictments are expected to continue for weeks.

'Last effort'

While the hearing is underway, Netanyahu may be preparing to inform President Reuven Rivlin he is unable to form a government after being tasked with doing so a week ago.

Negotiators for Netanyahu's right-wing Likud had intended to meet with Gantz's centrist Blue and White on Wednesday as part of so far unsuccessful efforts to hammer out a unity government.

Netanyahu had also sought to meet Gantz later on Wednesday.

But Blue and White announced late Tuesday that there was no reason for either meeting now since "pre-conditions" is sought for further talks were not met.

Both sides held out hope for a change of heart by their opponents, but Netanyahu had already labelled Wednesday's talks a "last effort".

Should he follow through with the negotiating tactic and tell Rivlin he cannot form a government, the president must then decide whether to ask Gantz to try.

Alternatively, Rivlin could call on parliament to agree on a candidate for prime minister with a vote of at least 61 of 120 members.

Netanyahu and Gantz have traded blame over failed efforts so far to reach a deal.

They are divided on a range of issues, but one major point: who would be prime minister first in a unity government.

Gantz argues that since his party finished as the largest, with one seat more than the Likud, he should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement.

He also says Blue and White cannot be part of a government with a prime minister facing indictment.

Netanyahu says even though Likud has fewer seats, more of the smaller parties in parliament back him.

He wants to negotiate based on a compromise Rivlin proposed, which could see him remain prime minister for now but step aside if indicted while retaining the title.

Gantz would step in as acting prime minister in the interim.

'Game of chicken'

Both are engaged in a game of "chicken" and the result could be yet another election, a third in the space of a year after April polls also ended inconclusively, said Gideon Rahat of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and the Israel Democracy Institute think tank.

In that case, much will depend on who the public blames for causing a third vote, he said.

"It's all about threats," said Rahat.

"In the game of chicken, sometimes the result is that both drivers are killed. And that would be like chicken: We'll have third elections because nobody will move."

However, it could also buy Netanyahu time as he awaits the attorney general's decision, and while it seems a long shot, holding a third election as soon as possible may allow it to occur before indictments are issued.

Both Gantz and Netanyahu have already begun seeking to lay blame in case another election is called as it is likely to spur public anger.

Rahat said he believed a unity government would have already been formed if Netanyahu were not at the helm, but Likud members have so far shown no sign of an insurrection against him.

Though weakened, Netanyahu may still emerge victorious, at least temporarily, said Rahat.

"Yes, he can," said Rahat, when asked if Netanyahu could, in the end, remain prime minister despite the multiple challenges.

But "he lost some of his magic".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a key day Wednesday in his attempt to remain premier, with both a planned corruption hearing and his unity government talks nearing a dead end. The hearing comes as deadlocked results from a September 17 general election leave Netanyahu plotting how to survive politically and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister. To do so, he will have to navigate the twin challenges of a potential corruption indictment against him in the weeks ahead and election results that give neither him nor his challenger Benny Gantz a clear path to a majority coalition. Both will collide Wednesday when Israel's attorney general convenes a pre-indictment hearing for Netanyahu after having said he intends to charge him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Only Netanyahu's lawyers and not the premier himself are expected to attend the closed-door hearing, which gives him a final chance to convince Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit he should not be indicted. The hearing is to last four days, covering three separate cases in which Netanyahu is accused of acting on behalf of wealthy supporters and businessmen in exchange for gifts or favourable news coverage. Netanyahu, who denies all the allegations, asked that the hearing be broadcast live because he has "nothing to hide." Mandelblit dismissed the request in no uncertain terms, saying the hearing was intended to convince the legal authorities, not the public. Following the hearing, the attorney general's deliberations on whether to issue the indictments are expected to continue for weeks. 'Last effort' While the hearing is underway, Netanyahu may be preparing to inform President Reuven Rivlin he is unable to form a government after being tasked with doing so a week ago. Negotiators for Netanyahu's right-wing Likud had intended to meet with Gantz's centrist Blue and White on Wednesday as part of so far unsuccessful efforts to hammer out a unity government. Netanyahu had also sought to meet Gantz later on Wednesday. But Blue and White announced late Tuesday that there was no reason for either meeting now since "pre-conditions" is sought for further talks were not met. Both sides held out hope for a change of heart by their opponents, but Netanyahu had already labelled Wednesday's talks a "last effort". Should he follow through with the negotiating tactic and tell Rivlin he cannot form a government, the president must then decide whether to ask Gantz to try. Alternatively, Rivlin could call on parliament to agree on a candidate for prime minister with a vote of at least 61 of 120 members. Netanyahu and Gantz have traded blame over failed efforts so far to reach a deal. They are divided on a range of issues, but one major point: who would be prime minister first in a unity government. Gantz argues that since his party finished as the largest, with one seat more than the Likud, he should be prime minister first under any rotation arrangement. He also says Blue and White cannot be part of a government with a prime minister facing indictment. Netanyahu says even though Likud has fewer seats, more of the smaller parties in parliament back him. He wants to negotiate based on a compromise Rivlin proposed, which could see him remain prime minister for now but step aside if indicted while retaining the title. Gantz would step in as acting prime minister in the interim. 'Game of chicken' Both are engaged in a game of "chicken" and the result could be yet another election, a third in the space of a year after April polls also ended inconclusively, said Gideon Rahat of Jerusalem's Hebrew University and the Israel Democracy Institute think tank. In that case, much will depend on who the public blames for causing a third vote, he said. "It's all about threats," said Rahat. "In the game of chicken, sometimes the result is that both drivers are killed. And that would be like chicken: We'll have third elections because nobody will move." However, it could also buy Netanyahu time as he awaits the attorney general's decision, and while it seems a long shot, holding a third election as soon as possible may allow it to occur before indictments are issued. Both Gantz and Netanyahu have already begun seeking to lay blame in case another election is called as it is likely to spur public anger. Rahat said he believed a unity government would have already been formed if Netanyahu were not at the helm, but Likud members have so far shown no sign of an insurrection against him. Though weakened, Netanyahu may still emerge victorious, at least temporarily, said Rahat. "Yes, he can," said Rahat, when asked if Netanyahu could, in the end, remain prime minister despite the multiple challenges. But "he lost some of his magic".

Netanyahu faces key day in bid to remain Israel Prime Minister

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will make a final effort this week to salvage a deal from talks to form a unity government with his centrist election rival, he said on Sunday.

An inconclusive ballot on Sept. 17, the second this year, has created a political deadlock and left Israel's longest-serving prime minister weakened.

Netanyahu, facing a looming indictment on corruption allegations he denies, has failed to secure a clear election victory twice in six months. His right-wing Likud party came second with 32 seats in the 120-member parliament, against 33 for former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party.

With neither party leader appearing able on his own to put together a coalition with a ruling majority, Israel's president on Wednesday tasked Netanyahu with forming the next government in the hope of securing a power-sharing deal between the Blue and White party and Likud.

If Netanyahu fails to clinch a deal, President Reuven Rivlin is then likely to ask Gantz to try to form a government, though he, like Netanyahu, also has no clear path to power.

The parties' negotiators met on Friday without success, with each side blaming the other for the stalemate. Likud said Netanyahu then telephoned Gantz and the two men would probably meet on Wednesday after another round of talks.

"Prime Minister Netanyahu is making a last effort to bring about a breakthrough in the talks for a unity government," Likud's spokesman said.

The Blue and White party said it would spare no effort to form "a broad, liberal, unity government".

In a video posted on Twitter, Netanyahu said there was no other solution than for him to serve first as prime minister and Gantz to serve second within a unity government.

Gantz, however, has pledged not to serve in a government under a premier facing criminal charges. His party has accused Likud of stalling in the talks in the hope of triggering yet another election.

Netanyahu, for his part, has said that the Blue and Whites were trying to instigate a coup within Likud that would see the party join a unity government with the Blue and White party after casting aside its veteran leader.

Israel’s attorney-general is due to hold a pre-trial hearing this week on his announced intention to indict Netanyahu on fraud and bribery charges in three corruption cases.

Netanyahu, who says he is a victim of a political witchhunt, can argue at the session against prosecution.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will make a final effort this week to salvage a deal from talks to form a unity government with his centrist election rival, he said on Sunday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will make a final effort this week to salvage a deal from talks to form a unity government with his centrist election rival, he said on Sunday. An inconclusive ballot on Sept. 17, the second this year, has created a political deadlock and left Israel's longest-serving prime minister weakened. Netanyahu, facing a looming indictment on corruption allegations he denies, has failed to secure a clear election victory twice in six months. His right-wing Likud party came second with 32 seats in the 120-member parliament, against 33 for former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party. With neither party leader appearing able on his own to put together a coalition with a ruling majority, Israel's president on Wednesday tasked Netanyahu with forming the next government in the hope of securing a power-sharing deal between the Blue and White party and Likud. If Netanyahu fails to clinch a deal, President Reuven Rivlin is then likely to ask Gantz to try to form a government, though he, like Netanyahu, also has no clear path to power. The parties' negotiators met on Friday without success, with each side blaming the other for the stalemate. Likud said Netanyahu then telephoned Gantz and the two men would probably meet on Wednesday after another round of talks. "Prime Minister Netanyahu is making a last effort to bring about a breakthrough in the talks for a unity government," Likud's spokesman said. The Blue and White party said it would spare no effort to form "a broad, liberal, unity government". In a video posted on Twitter, Netanyahu said there was no other solution than for him to serve first as prime minister and Gantz to serve second within a unity government. Gantz, however, has pledged not to serve in a government under a premier facing criminal charges. His party has accused Likud of stalling in the talks in the hope of triggering yet another election. Netanyahu, for his part, has said that the Blue and Whites were trying to instigate a coup within Likud that would see the party join a unity government with the Blue and White party after casting aside its veteran leader. Israel’s attorney-general is due to hold a pre-trial hearing this week on his announced intention to indict Netanyahu on fraud and bribery charges in three corruption cases. Netanyahu, who says he is a victim of a political witchhunt, can argue at the session against prosecution.

Netanyahu to meet centrist rival in last-ditch bid to form unity government

Israel's president on Wednesday tasked Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-gantz-set-for-new-talks-on-israel-vote-deadlock-252003">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> with forming a new government after last week's deadlocked elections, his office announced.

The announcement followed a joint meeting between President Reuven Rivlin, Netanyahu and the premier's challenger Benny Gantz.

Soon after accepting President Rivlin's mandate to try to form a government, Netanyahu renewed&nbsp;his call for Gantz to join him in a unity coalition.

However, the Gantz rejected the call saying that he will "not agree to sit in a government with a leader against whom stands a severe indictment."

"Blue and White led by me will not agree to sit in a government with a leader against whom stands a severe indictment," Gantz said in a statement.

Netanyahu will have 28 days to form a government, with a possible two-week extension.

If all attempts fail, Rivlin can then assign the task to someone else.

Watch: Israel elections - Referendum on Netanyahu?

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Rivlin has been urging Netanyahu and Gantz to form a unity government, but a compromise appears a long way off.

Final results from September 17 elections gave Gantz's centrist Blue and White 33 seats, ahead of Likud's 32 out of parliament's 120.

Neither has a clear path to a majority coalition.

Netanyahu received the endorsement of 55 members of parliament for the post of prime minister after the election, while Gantz received 54.

Israel's president on Wednesday tasked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with forming a new government after last week's deadlocked elections, his office announced.

Israel's president on Wednesday tasked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with forming a new government after last week's deadlocked elections, his office announced. The announcement followed a joint meeting between President Reuven Rivlin, Netanyahu and the premier's challenger Benny Gantz. Soon after accepting President Rivlin's mandate to try to form a government, Netanyahu renewed his call for Gantz to join him in a unity coalition. However, the Gantz rejected the call saying that he will "not agree to sit in a government with a leader against whom stands a severe indictment." "Blue and White led by me will not agree to sit in a government with a leader against whom stands a severe indictment," Gantz said in a statement. Netanyahu will have 28 days to form a government, with a possible two-week extension. If all attempts fail, Rivlin can then assign the task to someone else. Watch: Israel elections - Referendum on Netanyahu? × Rivlin has been urging Netanyahu and Gantz to form a unity government, but a compromise appears a long way off. Final results from September 17 elections gave Gantz's centrist Blue and White 33 seats, ahead of Likud's 32 out of parliament's 120. Neither has a clear path to a majority coalition. Netanyahu received the endorsement of 55 members of parliament for the post of prime minister after the election, while Gantz received 54.

Israel president tasks Benjamin Netanyahu with forming new government

74th UNGA: High-profile leaders go missing. Watch video to know more.

74th UNGA: High-profile leaders go missing

Israel's president met Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-to-meet-netanyahu-gantz-monday-night-251471">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> and his main opponent Benny Gantz together on Monday as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government after last week's election.

The key meeting was the first between the rival leaders since the deadlocked vote, the results of which threatened Netanyahu's long domination of Israeli politics.

But the veteran premier has shown no sign of willingly giving up his post.

President Reuven Rivlin ushered both men into his office in Jerusalem around 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) after shaking each of their hands.&nbsp;

It was not clear how long the meeting would last, but no major breakthroughs were expected Monday evening since Rivlin is yet to announce who he will choose to try to form a government.

Rivlin called for the meeting after wrapping up consultations with political parties elected to parliament to hear their recommendations for who should form the next government.

Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance finished with 33 seats out of 120 in the September 17 elections, while Netanyahu's right-wing Likud won 31.

Despite Gantz's slim lead, neither has a clear path to a majority coalition.

Both Netanyahu and Gantz, who had no previous political experience when he mounted his challenge to the premier, have backed calls for a unity government.

Gantz however says he should lead it since his party is the largest. A compromise seems a long way off.

The standoff has even raised the possibility of yet another election -- which would be the third in a year after April polls also ended inconclusively with Netanyahu unable to form a governing coalition.

Rivlin has said he will do all he can to avoid another election, and Monday's meeting may see him seek to play a mediator role.

Netanyahu on Monday reiterated his call for Gantz to join him in a unity government, again acknowledging he was unable to form the right-wing coalition he hoped for.

"The only government that can be formed in these conditions is a united and large one between us," Netanyahu said at a meeting of Likud lawmakers.

"The only way to reach it is to sit down and talk."

'Stable' coalition wanted

Rivlin has said clearly that he wants both Likud and Blue and White in a unity government to form a "stable" coalition -- but how to reach such an accord remains unclear.

The end of the Netanyahu era would be an extraordinary moment in Israeli politics.

He has been prime minister for a total of more than 13 years, the most in Israeli history. But he also faces potential corruption charges in the weeks ahead, pending a hearing set for early October.

The meeting at the president's office followed a dramatic day on Sunday, when Israeli Arab parties broke with longstanding precedent and said they were endorsing Gantz for prime minister.

In announcing the move, the mainly Arab Joint List alliance said its decision was not meant as an endorsement of the policies of the ex-military chief, but as a way of helping oust Netanyahu.

Netanyahu has repeatedly been accused of political rhetoric and actions amounting to racism toward Israel's Arab population.

The Joint List won 13 seats in the election, making it the third-largest force in parliament.

Rivlin is expected to designate a candidate to try to form a government on Wednesday, when final official election results are delivered to him.

That person would then have 28 days to do so, with a possible two-week extension.&nbsp;

If all attempts fail, Rivlin can then assign the task to someone else.

In Rivlin's consultations, Gantz received the endorsements of 54 parliament seats, while Netanyahu received 55.

Those totals do not include eight seats for ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party, which has endorsed neither candidate for now and could emerge as a kingmaker.

Gantz and Lieberman met on Monday, their first talks since the election.

"We exchanged opinions and viewpoints and if needed, will speak again in the future," Gantz said in a statement.

The tally also does not include three seats for one of the Arab parties that unlike the rest of the Joint List alliance, did not agree to endorse Gantz.

Israel's president met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main opponent Benny Gantz together on Monday as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government after last week's election.

Israel's president met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main opponent Benny Gantz together on Monday as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government after last week's election. The key meeting was the first between the rival leaders since the deadlocked vote, the results of which threatened Netanyahu's long domination of Israeli politics. But the veteran premier has shown no sign of willingly giving up his post. President Reuven Rivlin ushered both men into his office in Jerusalem around 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) after shaking each of their hands. It was not clear how long the meeting would last, but no major breakthroughs were expected Monday evening since Rivlin is yet to announce who he will choose to try to form a government. Rivlin called for the meeting after wrapping up consultations with political parties elected to parliament to hear their recommendations for who should form the next government. Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance finished with 33 seats out of 120 in the September 17 elections, while Netanyahu's right-wing Likud won 31. Despite Gantz's slim lead, neither has a clear path to a majority coalition. Both Netanyahu and Gantz, who had no previous political experience when he mounted his challenge to the premier, have backed calls for a unity government. Gantz however says he should lead it since his party is the largest. A compromise seems a long way off. The standoff has even raised the possibility of yet another election -- which would be the third in a year after April polls also ended inconclusively with Netanyahu unable to form a governing coalition. Rivlin has said he will do all he can to avoid another election, and Monday's meeting may see him seek to play a mediator role. Netanyahu on Monday reiterated his call for Gantz to join him in a unity government, again acknowledging he was unable to form the right-wing coalition he hoped for. "The only government that can be formed in these conditions is a united and large one between us," Netanyahu said at a meeting of Likud lawmakers. "The only way to reach it is to sit down and talk." 'Stable' coalition wanted Rivlin has said clearly that he wants both Likud and Blue and White in a unity government to form a "stable" coalition -- but how to reach such an accord remains unclear. The end of the Netanyahu era would be an extraordinary moment in Israeli politics. He has been prime minister for a total of more than 13 years, the most in Israeli history. But he also faces potential corruption charges in the weeks ahead, pending a hearing set for early October. The meeting at the president's office followed a dramatic day on Sunday, when Israeli Arab parties broke with longstanding precedent and said they were endorsing Gantz for prime minister. In announcing the move, the mainly Arab Joint List alliance said its decision was not meant as an endorsement of the policies of the ex-military chief, but as a way of helping oust Netanyahu. Netanyahu has repeatedly been accused of political rhetoric and actions amounting to racism toward Israel's Arab population. The Joint List won 13 seats in the election, making it the third-largest force in parliament. Rivlin is expected to designate a candidate to try to form a government on Wednesday, when final official election results are delivered to him. That person would then have 28 days to do so, with a possible two-week extension. If all attempts fail, Rivlin can then assign the task to someone else. In Rivlin's consultations, Gantz received the endorsements of 54 parliament seats, while Netanyahu received 55. Those totals do not include eight seats for ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party, which has endorsed neither candidate for now and could emerge as a kingmaker. Gantz and Lieberman met on Monday, their first talks since the election. "We exchanged opinions and viewpoints and if needed, will speak again in the future," Gantz said in a statement. The tally also does not include three seats for one of the Arab parties that unlike the rest of the Joint List alliance, did not agree to endorse Gantz.

Israeli president meets Benjamin Netanyahu, Benny Gantz in bid to break deadlock

Israel's Arab-dominated Joint List party moved on Sunday (September 22) to back the center-left bloc of Benny Gantz, who is challenging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing alliance, to form a new government.

Israel's Arab party supports Gantz ahead of Netanyahu

Israel's president will meet both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main opponent Benny Gantz on Monday evening as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government, his office said.

President Reuven Rivlin announced in a statement he had invited the two to a meeting together as he considers whom to task with trying to form a government following last week's deadlocked elections.

Rivlin made the announcement after he wrapped up consultations with political parties elected to parliament to hear their recommendations for who should form the next government.

Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance finished with 33 seats in the September 17 elections, while Netanyahu's right-wing Likud won 31.

Despite Gantz's slim lead, neither has a clear path to a majority coalition, putting Netanyahu's long tenure in office at risk.

Both Netanyahu and Gantz have also called for a unity government.

Gantz, however, says he should lead it since his party is the largest.

The standoff has even raised the possibility of yet another election which would be the third in a year's time after April polls also ended inconclusively.

Rivlin has said he will do all he can to avoid another election, and Monday's meeting may see him seek to play a mediator role.

Israel's president will meet both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main opponent Benny Gantz on Monday evening as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government, his office said.

Israel's president will meet both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main opponent Benny Gantz on Monday evening as he pressures their two parties to form a unity government, his office said. President Reuven Rivlin announced in a statement he had invited the two to a meeting together as he considers whom to task with trying to form a government following last week's deadlocked elections. Rivlin made the announcement after he wrapped up consultations with political parties elected to parliament to hear their recommendations for who should form the next government. Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance finished with 33 seats in the September 17 elections, while Netanyahu's right-wing Likud won 31. Despite Gantz's slim lead, neither has a clear path to a majority coalition, putting Netanyahu's long tenure in office at risk. Both Netanyahu and Gantz have also called for a unity government. Gantz, however, says he should lead it since his party is the largest. The standoff has even raised the possibility of yet another election which would be the third in a year's time after April polls also ended inconclusively. Rivlin has said he will do all he can to avoid another election, and Monday's meeting may see him seek to play a mediator role.

Israeli president to meet Netanyahu, Gantz Monday night

Israeli ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday he will not endorse either Benjamin Netanyahu or Benny Gantz for prime minister following last week's deadlocked elections.

Lieberman, who could potentially play a kingmaker role, spoke to journalists as President Reuven Rivlin began consulting political parties on who they will back for prime minister.

A delegation from Lieberman's secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party was due to meet Rivlin later Sunday.

Yisrael Beitenu won eight seats in the 120-seat parliament in Tuesday's election.

Lieberman has insisted on a unity government between his party, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White.

He said he could not for now back Netanyahu because he is willing to form a coalition with Israel's ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, which he accuses of seeking to impose religious law on the secular population.

Lieberman also said he could not back Gantz for now because he may reach a deal with either the ultra-Orthodox or Israel's Arab parties, which he called "enemies." 
&nbsp;

Israeli ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday he will not endorse either Benjamin Netanyahu or Benny Gantz for prime minister following last week's deadlocked elections.

Israeli ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday he will not endorse either Benjamin Netanyahu or Benny Gantz for prime minister following last week's deadlocked elections. Lieberman, who could potentially play a kingmaker role, spoke to journalists as President Reuven Rivlin began consulting political parties on who they will back for prime minister. A delegation from Lieberman's secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party was due to meet Rivlin later Sunday. Yisrael Beitenu won eight seats in the 120-seat parliament in Tuesday's election. Lieberman has insisted on a unity government between his party, Netanyahu's right-wing Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White. He said he could not for now back Netanyahu because he is willing to form a coalition with Israel's ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, which he accuses of seeking to impose religious law on the secular population. Lieberman also said he could not back Gantz for now because he may reach a deal with either the ultra-Orthodox or Israel's Arab parties, which he called "enemies."

Israel's Avigdor Lieberman says not backing Benjamin Netanyahu or Benny Gantz for Prime Minister

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - September 22nd, 2019

Near-complete official results Friday confirmed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-to-start-consultations-sunday-on-next-pm-250652">deadlock in Israel's general election</a> this week, putting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-says-he-should-be-pm-in-unity-government-250616">Benny Gantz's party</a> as the largest but without an obvious path to form a majority coalition.

The results from Israel's election committee showed Gantz's centrist Blue and White with 33 seats out of 120 and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud with 31.

Final results will be published on Wednesday, it said, and there could be changes before then.

The committee said the results did not include 14 polling stations where verifications were still ongoing.

Israeli media said that meant 99.8 per cent of the votes had been counted.

The third-largest total was the mainly Arab Joint List alliance, which won 13 seats, followed by the Jewish ultra-Orthodox party Shas with nine.

Another ultra-Orthodox party, United Torah Judaism, won eight seats, as did ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu.

The results have put Netanyahu's long tenure in office at risk.

Israel elections: Referendum on Netanyahu?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elections-referendum-or-netanyahu-250142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Thursday, he acknowledged the results did not allow him to form a right-wing coalition as he hoped and instead called on Gantz to form a unity government with him.

Gantz responded by saying he would have to be prime minister in a unity government since Blue and White was the largest party.

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin plans to begin consultations with all parties voted into parliament on Sunday to decide who to choose to try to form a government.

Near-complete official results Friday confirmed a deadlock in Israel's general election this week, putting Benny Gantz's party as the largest but without an obvious path to form a majority coalition.

Near-complete official results Friday confirmed a deadlock in Israel's general election this week, putting Benny Gantz's party as the largest but without an obvious path to form a majority coalition. The results from Israel's election committee showed Gantz's centrist Blue and White with 33 seats out of 120 and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud with 31. Final results will be published on Wednesday, it said, and there could be changes before then. The committee said the results did not include 14 polling stations where verifications were still ongoing. Israeli media said that meant 99.8 per cent of the votes had been counted. The third-largest total was the mainly Arab Joint List alliance, which won 13 seats, followed by the Jewish ultra-Orthodox party Shas with nine. Another ultra-Orthodox party, United Torah Judaism, won eight seats, as did ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu. The results have put Netanyahu's long tenure in office at risk. Israel elections: Referendum on Netanyahu? On Thursday, he acknowledged the results did not allow him to form a right-wing coalition as he hoped and instead called on Gantz to form a unity government with him. Gantz responded by saying he would have to be prime minister in a unity government since Blue and White was the largest party. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin plans to begin consultations with all parties voted into parliament on Sunday to decide who to choose to try to form a government.

Israel vote deadlock confirmed by near-complete official results

Israelis vote on Tuesday for the second time in less than six months in an election that could see Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu win a record fifth term - or end his decade-long dominance of Israeli politics.

Israel elections: Referendum on Netanyahu?

Benjamin Netanyahu's rival in Israeli Elections Benny Gantz said that He should be PM in Israeli unity govt. He will join the coalition only if Netanyahu will step aside.

Netanyahu opponent Gantz says, ''Israel wants unity government''

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - Sept 20th, 2019

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