Division seem to be deepening in Israel's wartime government and according to Israeli media a minister of the wartime cabinet Benny Gantz was also the head of the national Unity party is now all set to travel to Washington on Sunday. He's going to hold several meetings with the US officials and the announcement has outraged the incumbent prime minister Netanyahu. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas War: War cabinet minister Gantz plans US visit without PM Netanyahu's permission

Israel's war cabinet minister Benny Gantz plans US visit without PM Netanyahu's permission

Israeli PM enraged over war cabinet minister Benny Gantz's US visit | Israel War

There are "initial signs that indicate the possibility of moving forward" on a "new framework" to free the hostages, war cabinet minister Benny Gantz tells reporters in Tel Aviv.

Israeli minister Benny Gantz says 'promising early signs' on new hostage deal

Israel's war cabinet warned on Sunday (Feb 18) that the Israeli military would launch its ground offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah by March 10 if hostages held by Hamas in the besieged Palestinian territory are not freed within the next few weeks.

Israel's war cabinet warned on Sunday (Feb 18) that the Israeli military would launch its ground offensive in the Gaza Strip's Rafah by March 10 if hostages held by Hamas in the besieged Palestinian territory are not freed within the next few weeks. According to a report by The Times of Israel, war cabinet member Benny Gantz said, "The world must know, and Hamas leaders must know — if by Ramadan our hostages are not home, the fighting will continue everywhere, including the Rafah area." Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims, begins this year on March 10. Addressing a conference in Jerusalem, Gantz spoke further about the offensive, saying that Israel would do so (carry out the offensive) in a coordinated manner, facilitating the evacuation of civilians in dialogue with the United States and Egypt to minimise civilian casualties. Also read | Brazilian President Lula compares Gaza action to 'Holocaust', leaving Israel furious Amid international concerns about the ground assault in Rafah, Gantz, the former defence minister, said, "Hamas has a choice — they can surrender, release the hostages, and the citizens of Gaza will be able to celebrate the holy holiday of Ramadan." Palestinians hope int'l community can pressure Israel against entering Rafah Rafah is the last remaining stronghold of Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. Since the conflict started in Oct last year, more than a million Palestinians have fled to the city to seek shelter from the fighting. Palestinians in the Rafah tent camps on Sunday voiced concerns about the nearing Israeli offensive. “We hope that the international community pressures (Israel) not to enter Rafah, because the number of people that are in Rafah, is big. Even if you want to displace them, how will you do it for such a number? 1.3 million or 1.4 million people need to be displaced. Where will they go?” Hassan Al-Yakobi, retired teacher from Gaza City, told the news agency Reuters. Al-Yakobi is currently in Rafah after fleeing from the Gaza City. "We have young children and our stuff, these are the things every displaced anywhere is suffering. Other than this, what can we say? We are suffering. We walked from Khan Younis to Kaf Miraj (area between Khan Younis and Rafah) while holding our things, it’s all very tiring,” the retired teacher added. Also watch | Prospects dim for truce in Israel-Hamas war × Another displaced Palestinian, Mohammed Farookh, told the news agency that the Rafah offensive would exacerbate the problem and add pressure on all the displaced people in the Gaza Strip. "Today it hosts more than a million people, in a small area, crowded with people. There are no appropriate living conditions, no food, drinks or housing in this extreme cold," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Return hostages by Ramadan or face Rafah ground offensive from Mar 10, Israel warns

A poll published by Channel 12 News finds that the Israeli public believes that the chairman of the National Unity Party, Minister Benny Gantz, is the most suitable candidate for Prime Minister.

Israelis feels Gantz most suitable candidate to be Prime Minister, finds poll

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him.

The survey was conducted by the Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research at the Israel Democracy Institute and included&nbsp;605 Jewish Israelis and 151 Arab Israelis as representative sample.&nbsp;

The leader of the National Unity party, Benny Gantz, was named as the preferred prime minister after the war by almost a quarter (23 per cent) of the respondents.&nbsp;

Despite the low share of the respondents who wish to see Netanyahu as prime minister when the war is over, there is no alternative on the Right whose support even comes close, the survey showed.

Minister of Internal Security Ben-Gvir is preferred by only 1.5 per cent, ex-Mossad chief Yossi Cohen by 1 per cent and&nbsp;Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant by just 0.5 per cent&nbsp;of respondents.

This is not the first instance when Netanyahu's popularity has taken a dip. Last week, another poll was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas.

Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea?</a>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-why-are-houthi-rebels-attacking-vessels-in-red-sea-world-news-wion-671794/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>Netanyahu rules out peace with Hamas</h2>

Netanyahu has ruled out stopping the war in Gaza until Hamas is eliminated from the region.

"We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement.

"Anyone who thinks we’ll stop is unmoored from reality.&nbsp;We’re raining fire on Hamas, hell fire. All Hamas terrorists, from first to last face death. They have two options only: surrender or die," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-pm-netanyahus-popularity-plummets-further-says-new-polls-674365">Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu’s popularity plummets further, say new polls</a>

While Netanyahu claims Israel will not stop the war, Russia and the Arab League have increased the diplomatic pressure on Israel to give up its tough act.

In the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed over 22,000 people, mostly women and children.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him.

A new poll has revealed a damning picture of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Only 15 per cent of Israelis want Bibi to stay in office after the war with Hamas in Gaza ends, preferring Benny Gantz over him. The survey was conducted by the Viterbi Family Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research at the Israel Democracy Institute and included 605 Jewish Israelis and 151 Arab Israelis as representative sample. The leader of the National Unity party, Benny Gantz, was named as the preferred prime minister after the war by almost a quarter (23 per cent) of the respondents. Despite the low share of the respondents who wish to see Netanyahu as prime minister when the war is over, there is no alternative on the Right whose support even comes close, the survey showed. Minister of Internal Security Ben-Gvir is preferred by only 1.5 per cent, ex-Mossad chief Yossi Cohen by 1 per cent and Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant by just 0.5 per cent of respondents. This is not the first instance when Netanyahu's popularity has taken a dip. Last week, another poll was carried out by the Bar-Ilan University in which it was revealed that only 24 per cent of Israelis considered Netanyahu as the most trustworthy source of news related to the war against Hamas. Currently, Netanyahu's political ratings are plummeting and he has already been abandoned by large chunks of his nationalist base, as per the polls. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Why are Houthi rebels attacking vessels in Red Sea? Netanyahu rules out peace with Hamas Netanyahu has ruled out stopping the war in Gaza until Hamas is eliminated from the region. "We won't stop fighting until we've achieved all the objectives we've set ourselves: the elimination of Hamas, the release of our hostages and the end of the threat from Gaza," Netanyahu said in a statement. "Anyone who thinks we’ll stop is unmoored from reality. We’re raining fire on Hamas, hell fire. All Hamas terrorists, from first to last face death. They have two options only: surrender or die," he added. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu’s popularity plummets further, say new polls While Netanyahu claims Israel will not stop the war, Russia and the Arab League have increased the diplomatic pressure on Israel to give up its tough act. In the October 7 attacks, as many as 1,140 people died, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims Israel's military response has killed over 22,000 people, mostly women and children. (With inputs from agencies)

Benny Gantz preferred over Benjamin Netanyahu after Gaza war ends, poll finds

The Israeli parliament failed to elect representatives to the judicial selection committee. On Wednesday, the Parliament appointed an Opposition lawmaker to the powerful panel that appoints the country’s judges. However, with a second vacancy left unfilled, the Opposition said it would freeze the talks until the committee resumes work. Opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz suspended their participation in talks with the government.

Israel PM Netanyahu hits out as Opposition leaders step back from judicial reform talks | Details

Israel's new government plans to overhaul the country's judicial system, former Defense Minister Benny Gantz has urged people to take to the streets to oppose the judicial reform plan which he said could lead to Civil War in the country.

WION Dispatch: Israel's former defence minister opposes juidicial reform plan

While speaking to WION's Jodie Cohen, Israel's outgoing Defence Minister Benny Gantz said that " We are very worried about the direction Netanyahu is taking us, we have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction".

WION Exclusive: 'We have to make sure Israel stays in the right direction', says Benny Gantz

A senior Israeli defence official said in a briefing with reporters that defence minister Benny Gantz received "positive hints" from White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan that the US is developing a military option against Iran.

According to the official, "We feel there is a trajectory for deepening and strengthening the capabilities against Iran, and the Americans understand deeply that it will give the Iranians an incentive to be more pragmatic about the nuclear deal and will strengthen their position."

The development comes after Gantz told Sullivan that the US needs to ensure that it retains a viable military option against Iran’s nuclear facilities even if a new deal is reached with the Islamic Republic.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-iran-us-inch-closer-to-reviving-nuclear-deal-510206/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Emphasising the importance of maintaining and advancing operational capabilities for both defensive and offensive purposes, Gantz said Israel is staunchly opposed to efforts by world powers to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement.

Stressing that the only way Tehran will be more flexible in the negotiations is by a credible military threat, Gantz said Israel will maintain its freedom to act against Iran even if a deal is reached.

Although there is no deadline dictating the Biden administration's decision-making about the nuclear deal with Iran, Tehran has received Washington's response to an EU-drafted final offer for salvaging the 2015 deal.

Calling on the United States to show flexibility to resolve three remaining issues, Iran responded last week with "additional views and considerations".

Focusing on countering Tehran’s malign activity in the Middle East, Gantz welcomed the series of airstrikes by the US military against pro-Iranian militias in Syria in recent days.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A senior Israeli defence official said in a briefing with reporters that defence minister Benny Gantz received "positive hints" from White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan that the US is developing a military option against Iran.

A senior Israeli defence official said in a briefing with reporters that defence minister Benny Gantz received "positive hints" from White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan that the US is developing a military option against Iran. According to the official, "We feel there is a trajectory for deepening and strengthening the capabilities against Iran, and the Americans understand deeply that it will give the Iranians an incentive to be more pragmatic about the nuclear deal and will strengthen their position." The development comes after Gantz told Sullivan that the US needs to ensure that it retains a viable military option against Iran’s nuclear facilities even if a new deal is reached with the Islamic Republic. × Emphasising the importance of maintaining and advancing operational capabilities for both defensive and offensive purposes, Gantz said Israel is staunchly opposed to efforts by world powers to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement. Stressing that the only way Tehran will be more flexible in the negotiations is by a credible military threat, Gantz said Israel will maintain its freedom to act against Iran even if a deal is reached. Although there is no deadline dictating the Biden administration's decision-making about the nuclear deal with Iran, Tehran has received Washington's response to an EU-drafted final offer for salvaging the 2015 deal. Calling on the United States to show flexibility to resolve three remaining issues, Iran responded last week with "additional views and considerations". Focusing on countering Tehran’s malign activity in the Middle East, Gantz welcomed the series of airstrikes by the US military against pro-Iranian militias in Syria in recent days. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

United States hints it is developing military option against Iran after Gantz's visit to Washington: Report

Israel is heading to its fifth election since 2019 after the collapse of fragile coalition government. Many see this as opportunity for Netanyahu to return to power but Israel's longest-serving leader now faces a new obstacle, a coalition between Benny Gantz and Gideon Sa'ar.

Israel gears up for another election | Gantz, Sa'ar agree to merge parties for polls

Israel's Defence Minister Benny Gantz is visiting India as the two countries mark 30 years of bilateral and defence ties. Gantz called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also held a discussion with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Israel's Defence Minister Benny Gantz visits India

Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz lands in New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh. During the visit, both sides will sign a document aimed at deepening security relations.

Israeli defence minister Benny Gantz to meet Indian PM Modi and Rajnath Singh in New Delhi

Israeli defence minister Benny Gantz is on India visit. He met his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh in New Delhi and received Guard of Honour. Gantz will also be meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the expansion of cooperation between India and Israel.

Benny Gantz India Visit: Israeli defence minister receives Guard Of Honour, meets Rajnath Singh

Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz lands in New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh. During the visit, both sides will sign a document aimed at deepening security relations. He will also be given a Guard of honour.

Benny Gantz India Visit: Israeli defence minister to be given guard of honour

Israel Defence minister Benny Gantz lands in New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterpart Rajnath Singh. WION's Siddhant Sibbal brings you more insights.

Benny Gantz India Visit: Israeli defence minister to meet PM Modi and his Indian counterpart

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz landed in Bahrain on Wednesday, the latest high-profile diplomatic trip since the countries normalised ties.

Israeli Defence Minister Gantz's first ever visit to Bahrain amid heightened gulf tensions

Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz fended off criticism of his recent meeting with PA President Mahmoud Abbas. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said that he has given full approval to the meeting.

Gantz 'disappointed' with ministers criticising his meet with PA leader Abbas

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas made a rare visit to Israel Tuesday for talks with Defence Minister Benny Gantz, that the defence ministry said focused on security and civil matters. According to a statement by the Israeli defence ministry Gantz told Abbas that he intended to "continue to promote actions to strengthen confidence in the economic and civilian fields, as agreed during their last meeting."

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas meets Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz in the West Bank city of Ramallah during which they discussed ‘security-policy, civilian and economic issues’.

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz meets Palestinian Prez Abbas

A deadline for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a new government was set to expire at midnight in Israel with no sign on Tuesday that the country`s longest-serving leader could break more than two years of political deadlock.

There was also no guarantee that, should the right-wing leader fail to assemble a new coalition, parties outside his caretaker government could bridge political differences and unseat him.

Netanyahu, 71, has been in office since 2009 and also served for three years in the 1990s. He has been fighting for his political life through four inconclusive elections since 2019 and is on trial for criminal corruption charges he denies.

If Netanyahu fails to pull off any last-minute surprise by midnight, President Reuven Rivlin can assign the coalition-building task to another member of parliament. That is widely expected to be Yair Lapid, 57, whose centrist Yesh Atid party placed second to Netanyahu`s Likud in the March 23 vote.

KINGMAKERS

Netanyahu`s bloc of right-wing and Jewish religious parties failed to win a majority, but nor did a camp aiming to oust him, which would have to include his right-wing rivals as well as traditional left-wing and centrist opponents.

Both sides have courted the support of parties representing Israel`s around 20 per cent&nbsp;Arab minority, potentially giving them say over a cabinet for the first time in decades.

Naftali Bennett, head of the ultranationalist Yamina party, has emerged as a kingmaker. Bennett, 49, has voiced a preference to join Netanyahu but said he would seek a partnership with the prime minister`s opponents to avoid a fifth election as Israel reopens its economy after a swift COVID-19 vaccination rollout and grapples with the challenges of Iran`s nuclear programme.

A rotation deal in which Bennett and Lapid would alternate as prime minister has also been widely mooted.

Much of the political deadlock stems from Netanyahu`s legal troubles, with some prospective allies pledging they would not serve under a prime minister who is on trial.

Should a new nominee tapped by Rivlin fail to put together a coalition within 28 days, the president can ask parliament to agree a candidate within three weeks. If it cannot, Israel will hold another election.

"We are 60 per cent&nbsp;headed toward another election and 40 per cent&nbsp;toward a new government," Yoav Karkovsky, Kan public radio`s political affairs correspondent, forecast in a morning broadcast.

A deadline for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a new government was set to expire at midnight in Israel with no sign on Tuesday that the country`s longest-serving leader could break more than two years of political deadlock.

A deadline for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a new government was set to expire at midnight in Israel with no sign on Tuesday that the country`s longest-serving leader could break more than two years of political deadlock. There was also no guarantee that, should the right-wing leader fail to assemble a new coalition, parties outside his caretaker government could bridge political differences and unseat him. Netanyahu, 71, has been in office since 2009 and also served for three years in the 1990s. He has been fighting for his political life through four inconclusive elections since 2019 and is on trial for criminal corruption charges he denies. If Netanyahu fails to pull off any last-minute surprise by midnight, President Reuven Rivlin can assign the coalition-building task to another member of parliament. That is widely expected to be Yair Lapid, 57, whose centrist Yesh Atid party placed second to Netanyahu`s Likud in the March 23 vote. KINGMAKERS Netanyahu`s bloc of right-wing and Jewish religious parties failed to win a majority, but nor did a camp aiming to oust him, which would have to include his right-wing rivals as well as traditional left-wing and centrist opponents. Both sides have courted the support of parties representing Israel`s around 20 per cent Arab minority, potentially giving them say over a cabinet for the first time in decades. Naftali Bennett, head of the ultranationalist Yamina party, has emerged as a kingmaker. Bennett, 49, has voiced a preference to join Netanyahu but said he would seek a partnership with the prime minister`s opponents to avoid a fifth election as Israel reopens its economy after a swift COVID-19 vaccination rollout and grapples with the challenges of Iran`s nuclear programme. A rotation deal in which Bennett and Lapid would alternate as prime minister has also been widely mooted. Much of the political deadlock stems from Netanyahu`s legal troubles, with some prospective allies pledging they would not serve under a prime minister who is on trial. Should a new nominee tapped by Rivlin fail to put together a coalition within 28 days, the president can ask parliament to agree a candidate within three weeks. If it cannot, Israel will hold another election. "We are 60 per cent headed toward another election and 40 per cent toward a new government," Yoav Karkovsky, Kan public radio`s political affairs correspondent, forecast in a morning broadcast.

Netanyahu's deadline to form govt in Israel set to expire at midnight with no sign of progress

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's prospects of forming a new coalition government after an indecisive election were further complicated on Thursday by a far-right refusal of any prospective parliamentary partnership with an Islamist party.

Partial tallies from Tuesday's ballot showed Netanyahu's conservative Likud and ideologically kindred factions short of a majority in the 120-seat Knesset - raising the possibility he would seek some sort of accommodation with the United Arab List.

The central election committee said it had counted nearly 100 per cent of the ballots from Tuesday's vote, with the results indicating a 59-seat bloc for the right-wing and religious parties that would join a Netanyahu-led coalition, two seats short of a majority.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prime-minister-netanyahu-falls-short-of-majority-amid-vote-count-in-israeli-elections-372896">Prime Minister Netanyahu falls short of majority amid vote count in Israeli elections</a>

Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving premier after 12 years in power, had hoped Tuesday's election would finally allow him to unite a stable right-wing coalition behind him, after three inconclusive elections since 2019.

While political commentators saw the inclusion of the UAL - which was forecast to win four seats - in a Netanyahu-led government as unlikely, some predicted the party might instead pledge not to support any opposition no-confidence motions.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-netanyahu-faces-uphill-battle-as-israel-votes-372636/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In exchange for such protection from an unlikely ally, Netanyahu would agree on measures to improve conditions for Israel's 21% Arab minority, the commentators said.

But Religious Zionism, an ultranationalist party run by Jewish settlers and forecast to take six seats, indicated Netanyahu could not rely on its support if he reached an arrangement with the UAL, which has pro-Palestinian sympathies.

"No rightist government predicated on UAL will arise. Period. Not (with UAL) on the inside, nor the outside, not through abstention, nor through some other kind of (scheme)," Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich said on Facebook.

UAL has signalled openness to back the next government, whether under Netanyahu or his centrist rival Yair Lapid, who with like-minded politicians appears set to control 57 seats.

A Netanyahu-led coalition that includes Religious Zionism controls 52 seats, the partial results show.

"Sometimes coalitions include people who don't really like each other," UAL's Waleed Taha told Israel's Army Radio.

He said his party was not, at this time, "talking about improving our personal roles" - an allusion to cabinet posts.

Asked if UAL might, from the opposition, provide ad-hoc parliamentary support for a Netanyahu-led coalition with Religious Zionism, Taha said the onus was on the far-rightists.

"If it is acceptable, to the people that you mentioned, that all of the subjects that we raise are accepted, then it would appear they have changed their stripes," he said.

Another potential kingmaker, former defence minister Naftali Bennett, whose nationalist Yamina party appears to have won seven seats, has been non-committal on which way it may swing.

Final results in the politically polarised country's fourth election in two years were expected to be announced late on Thursday or on Friday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's prospects of forming a new coalition government after an indecisive election were further complicated on Thursday by a far-right refusal of any prospective parliamentary partnership with an Islamist party.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's prospects of forming a new coalition government after an indecisive election were further complicated on Thursday by a far-right refusal of any prospective parliamentary partnership with an Islamist party. Partial tallies from Tuesday's ballot showed Netanyahu's conservative Likud and ideologically kindred factions short of a majority in the 120-seat Knesset - raising the possibility he would seek some sort of accommodation with the United Arab List. The central election committee said it had counted nearly 100 per cent of the ballots from Tuesday's vote, with the results indicating a 59-seat bloc for the right-wing and religious parties that would join a Netanyahu-led coalition, two seats short of a majority. Also read| Prime Minister Netanyahu falls short of majority amid vote count in Israeli elections Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving premier after 12 years in power, had hoped Tuesday's election would finally allow him to unite a stable right-wing coalition behind him, after three inconclusive elections since 2019. While political commentators saw the inclusion of the UAL - which was forecast to win four seats - in a Netanyahu-led government as unlikely, some predicted the party might instead pledge not to support any opposition no-confidence motions. In exchange for such protection from an unlikely ally, Netanyahu would agree on measures to improve conditions for Israel's 21% Arab minority, the commentators said. But Religious Zionism, an ultranationalist party run by Jewish settlers and forecast to take six seats, indicated Netanyahu could not rely on its support if he reached an arrangement with the UAL, which has pro-Palestinian sympathies. "No rightist government predicated on UAL will arise. Period. Not (with UAL) on the inside, nor the outside, not through abstention, nor through some other kind of (scheme)," Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich said on Facebook. UAL has signalled openness to back the next government, whether under Netanyahu or his centrist rival Yair Lapid, who with like-minded politicians appears set to control 57 seats. A Netanyahu-led coalition that includes Religious Zionism controls 52 seats, the partial results show. "Sometimes coalitions include people who don't really like each other," UAL's Waleed Taha told Israel's Army Radio. He said his party was not, at this time, "talking about improving our personal roles" - an allusion to cabinet posts. Asked if UAL might, from the opposition, provide ad-hoc parliamentary support for a Netanyahu-led coalition with Religious Zionism, Taha said the onus was on the far-rightists. "If it is acceptable, to the people that you mentioned, that all of the subjects that we raise are accepted, then it would appear they have changed their stripes," he said. Another potential kingmaker, former defence minister Naftali Bennett, whose nationalist Yamina party appears to have won seven seats, has been non-committal on which way it may swing. Final results in the politically polarised country's fourth election in two years were expected to be announced late on Thursday or on Friday.

Israeli far-rightists clouding Netanyahu coalition prospects

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu's prospects for another term looked uncertain on Wednesday after partial results from a national election projected no clear path to victory.

Netanyahu's Likud party has emerged as the single largest with 30 seats, but the right-wing bloc led by the 71-year-old leader still does not have the 61-seat majority needed to form a coalition in the 120-member Knesset (Israeli parliament).

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-netanyahu-faces-uphill-battle-as-israel-votes-372636/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The election turnout of 67.2 per cent was a drop of 4.3 per cent since last March's election when the turnout was 71.5 per cent and the lowest of the four elections of the past two years.

Not even his stewardship of Israel’s world-beating COVID-19 vaccination rollout - a central pillar of his campaign - proved enough for&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;to break through the political deadlock that has seen four elections in two years.

With about 88 per cent&nbsp;of votes counted it appeared that&nbsp;Netanyahu, 71, would have to cobble together a coalition from a combination of right-wing allies, ultra-Orthodox parties, ultra-nationalists, Arabs and defectors to secure another term.

Should a hard-right government emerge, it would likely be at loggerheads with the Democratic administration of US&nbsp;President Joe Biden over issues such as Palestinian statehood and US&nbsp;engagement with Israel's arch-enemy Iran over its nuclear programme.

Some centre-left parties made a better showing than expected after highlighting longstanding corruption allegations against&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;- which he denies - and accusing him of mishandling the early months of the pandemic.

But like&nbsp;Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc it fell short of a governing majority in the 120-member parliament. And it has a less clear route to forming a coalition, having to unite parties from different wings of the political spectrum.

Immediately after polls closed on Tuesday,&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;claimed victory and said he hoped to form a "stable right-wing government". But as first results trickled in and seemed to shift against him, he did not repeat the claim in his televised post-election speech.

One potential kingmaker is Naftali Bennett, 48, a former defence minister who favours annexing parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Bennett's hawkish Yamina party is projected to win seven seats. He remained non-committal after the vote, saying only he would do "what is good for Israel".

Yohanan Plesner, head of the Israel Democracy Institute, predicted political paralysis and said a fifth national election was possible.

"It seems quite clear that Israelis are split right down the middle with respect to the main question that divides Israeli politics, which is pro and against Mr&nbsp;Netanyahu," he said.

"The period of uncertainty, deadlock and paralysis is expected to accompany us for the foreseeable future."

Visting Tubas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Wednesday, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said the outcome "does not really give any hope for peace" and that the Israeli political system had shifted to the right.

"What is needed really from the future prime minister of Israel is somebody who is ready to stand up and say that he is ready to end occupation," Shtayyeh told Reuters. "We have to break this status quo."

Netanyahu&nbsp;has sealed historic deals with several Arab nations to normalise ties, but Israel and the Palestinians have not held direct negotiations since 2014 when peace talks broke down. Each side accuses the other of intransigence over core issues such as Jerusalem and Jewish settlements.

Horse-trading

Tuesday's vote followed three inconclusive elections in which neither&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;nor his centre-left opponents won a stable majority in the 120-seat parliament.

Netanyahu's Likud is now projected to emerge as the largest party with 30 seats, down from 36. The opposition centrist party Yesh Atid, headed by Yair Lapid, is set to be second with 18 seats.

Lapid, 57, had hoped there would be enough parties in the anti-Netanyahu&nbsp;bloc to oust the veteran premier, in power since 2009.

It usually falls to the biggest party to try to form a government, and that could take weeks of back-room dealings.

Netanyahu&nbsp;may have to woo Jewish religious allies as well as far-rightists and possibly even the the United Arab List (UAL), an Islamist party forecast to win five seats.

UAL leader Mansour Abbas, 46, has advocated working with&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;to address the needs of Israel's 21% Arab minority - a position rejected by most Arabs.

"We are not in anyone's pocket. We are prepared to engage with both sides (Netanyahu&nbsp;and Lapid)," Abbas told Tel Aviv radio station 103 FM. Israeli media reported that he had agreed to meet Lapid later this week.

Israel's shekel was flat against the dollar and stocks slipped on Wednesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's prospects for another term looked uncertain on Wednesday after partial results from a national election projected no clear path to victory.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's prospects for another term looked uncertain on Wednesday after partial results from a national election projected no clear path to victory. Netanyahu's Likud party has emerged as the single largest with 30 seats, but the right-wing bloc led by the 71-year-old leader still does not have the 61-seat majority needed to form a coalition in the 120-member Knesset (Israeli parliament). The election turnout of 67.2 per cent was a drop of 4.3 per cent since last March's election when the turnout was 71.5 per cent and the lowest of the four elections of the past two years. Not even his stewardship of Israel’s world-beating COVID-19 vaccination rollout - a central pillar of his campaign - proved enough for Netanyahu to break through the political deadlock that has seen four elections in two years. With about 88 per cent of votes counted it appeared that Netanyahu, 71, would have to cobble together a coalition from a combination of right-wing allies, ultra-Orthodox parties, ultra-nationalists, Arabs and defectors to secure another term. Should a hard-right government emerge, it would likely be at loggerheads with the Democratic administration of US President Joe Biden over issues such as Palestinian statehood and US engagement with Israel's arch-enemy Iran over its nuclear programme. Some centre-left parties made a better showing than expected after highlighting longstanding corruption allegations against Netanyahu - which he denies - and accusing him of mishandling the early months of the pandemic. But like Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc it fell short of a governing majority in the 120-member parliament. And it has a less clear route to forming a coalition, having to unite parties from different wings of the political spectrum. Immediately after polls closed on Tuesday, Netanyahu claimed victory and said he hoped to form a "stable right-wing government". But as first results trickled in and seemed to shift against him, he did not repeat the claim in his televised post-election speech. One potential kingmaker is Naftali Bennett, 48, a former defence minister who favours annexing parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Bennett's hawkish Yamina party is projected to win seven seats. He remained non-committal after the vote, saying only he would do "what is good for Israel". Yohanan Plesner, head of the Israel Democracy Institute, predicted political paralysis and said a fifth national election was possible. "It seems quite clear that Israelis are split right down the middle with respect to the main question that divides Israeli politics, which is pro and against Mr Netanyahu," he said. "The period of uncertainty, deadlock and paralysis is expected to accompany us for the foreseeable future." Visting Tubas in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Wednesday, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said the outcome "does not really give any hope for peace" and that the Israeli political system had shifted to the right. "What is needed really from the future prime minister of Israel is somebody who is ready to stand up and say that he is ready to end occupation," Shtayyeh told Reuters. "We have to break this status quo." Netanyahu has sealed historic deals with several Arab nations to normalise ties, but Israel and the Palestinians have not held direct negotiations since 2014 when peace talks broke down. Each side accuses the other of intransigence over core issues such as Jerusalem and Jewish settlements. Horse-trading Tuesday's vote followed three inconclusive elections in which neither Netanyahu nor his centre-left opponents won a stable majority in the 120-seat parliament. Netanyahu's Likud is now projected to emerge as the largest party with 30 seats, down from 36. The opposition centrist party Yesh Atid, headed by Yair Lapid, is set to be second with 18 seats. Lapid, 57, had hoped there would be enough parties in the anti-Netanyahu bloc to oust the veteran premier, in power since 2009. It usually falls to the biggest party to try to form a government, and that could take weeks of back-room dealings. Netanyahu may have to woo Jewish religious allies as well as far-rightists and possibly even the the United Arab List (UAL), an Islamist party forecast to win five seats. UAL leader Mansour Abbas, 46, has advocated working with Netanyahu to address the needs of Israel's 21% Arab minority - a position rejected by most Arabs. "We are not in anyone's pocket. We are prepared to engage with both sides (Netanyahu and Lapid)," Abbas told Tel Aviv radio station 103 FM. Israeli media reported that he had agreed to meet Lapid later this week. Israel's shekel was flat against the dollar and stocks slipped on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Netanyahu falls short of majority amid vote count in Israeli elections

Polls opened in Israel including in the occupied West Bank for the fourth time in two years as Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-rally-at-anti-netanyahu-protest-ahead-of-election-372013">Netanyahu's</a> Likud party clashes against&nbsp;a new challenger Yair Lapid-led centre-left party Yesh Atid&nbsp;(There is a Future) party.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-israels-record-fourth-election-heading-towards-a-deadlock-372361/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu, 71, who battled corruption allegations, has ruled over Israel as prime minister for an unprecedented 12 consecutive years. However, he was&nbsp;unable to unite a stable coalition.

The Israeli prime minister has been fighting the new election under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-vaccination-nation-israel-vote-for-prime-minister-netanyahu-372358">"Vaccination Nation"</a> slogan as the country has moved at breakneck speed to ensure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bahrain-leaders-discuss-vaccine-plant-netanyahu-visit-to-gulf-state-366232">COVID-19 </a>vaccination for all its citizen.&nbsp;

The Likud party needs a 61-seat parliamentary majority in the 120-member Knesset with 6.5 million registered voters set to deliver a result.&nbsp;

Yair Lapid, 57, an ex-finance minister and TV host who leads the Yesh Atid party, is widely expected to do well against Gantz as the strongest force in the anti-Netanyahu camp. Also in the race are Naftali Bennett, 48, belonging to the Yamina party and Gideon Saar, 54, who heads&nbsp;the New Hope party.

Gantz's Blue and White party,&nbsp;which had failed to hold its coalition partnership with Netanyahu, has seen his popularity plunge as he failed to hold the government together.

The results of the crucial polls are set to trickle in overnight from Tuesday, with final results expected around Friday.&nbsp;

Polls opened in Israel including in the occupied West Bank for the fourth time in two years as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party clashes against a new challenger Yair Lapid-led centre-left party Yesh Atid (There is a Future) party.

Polls opened in Israel including in the occupied West Bank for the fourth time in two years as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party clashes against a new challenger Yair Lapid-led centre-left party Yesh Atid (There is a Future) party. Watch: Netanyahu, 71, who battled corruption allegations, has ruled over Israel as prime minister for an unprecedented 12 consecutive years. However, he was unable to unite a stable coalition. The Israeli prime minister has been fighting the new election under the "Vaccination Nation" slogan as the country has moved at breakneck speed to ensure COVID-19 vaccination for all its citizen. The Likud party needs a 61-seat parliamentary majority in the 120-member Knesset with 6.5 million registered voters set to deliver a result. Yair Lapid, 57, an ex-finance minister and TV host who leads the Yesh Atid party, is widely expected to do well against Gantz as the strongest force in the anti-Netanyahu camp. Also in the race are Naftali Bennett, 48, belonging to the Yamina party and Gideon Saar, 54, who heads the New Hope party. Gantz's Blue and White party, which had failed to hold its coalition partnership with Netanyahu, has seen his popularity plunge as he failed to hold the government together. The results of the crucial polls are set to trickle in overnight from Tuesday, with final results expected around Friday.

Polls open in Israel as contenders seek to topple PM Netanyahu

With less than 12 days before another round of elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will pay his first visit to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday. Netanyahu is said to have updated Defense Minister Benny Gantz on the visit.

PM Netanyahu to visit UAE 12 days before Israel elections

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Including himself among Israelis, who could be threatened with arrest, Benny Gantz said, "I was never afraid to go across enemy lines, I will continue to stand wherever I have to."&nbsp;

The Hague-based tribunal ruled last month that it has jurisdiction over the occupied West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. The ruling could lead to criminal investigations of Israel and of Palestinian militant groups including Hamas.&nbsp;

Israel is not a member of the court and rejects its jurisdiction, a position backed by its close ally the United States. Palestinians have welcomed the ruling as a chance for justice for victims of Israeli attacks.&nbsp;

In an interview on Israel's fortified border with Gaza, Gantz, who also holds Israel's justice portfolio, called the ruling a 'negative development', and added, "We have our own teams working in different (places) to try (and) influence (the ICC)."&nbsp;

Gantz was the military's chief of staff during a 2014 war between Israel and militants in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The ICC has pointed to that conflict as a potential issue to be probed.&nbsp;

Asked how many Israelis, including himself, might expect to be subject to arrest should the probe lead to criminal investigations, Gantz said, "I guess several hundred, but we will take care of everybody."&nbsp;

Gantz called that 'an estimate', declining to say if Israel had drawn up a list of officials. Israel will provide legal assistance to any implicated Israelis and will give them legal warnings regarding travel if necessary, Gantz said.&nbsp;

Asked if he himself might change his travel plans in light of the ICC probe, Gantz said, "So far, no."&nbsp;

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday.

Israel estimates that hundreds of its citizens might be subject to war crimes probes by the International Criminal Court, whose jurisdiction it rejects, and is working on how to protect them, the Defence Minister said on Tuesday. Including himself among Israelis, who could be threatened with arrest, Benny Gantz said, "I was never afraid to go across enemy lines, I will continue to stand wherever I have to." The Hague-based tribunal ruled last month that it has jurisdiction over the occupied West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem. The ruling could lead to criminal investigations of Israel and of Palestinian militant groups including Hamas. Israel is not a member of the court and rejects its jurisdiction, a position backed by its close ally the United States. Palestinians have welcomed the ruling as a chance for justice for victims of Israeli attacks. In an interview on Israel's fortified border with Gaza, Gantz, who also holds Israel's justice portfolio, called the ruling a 'negative development', and added, "We have our own teams working in different (places) to try (and) influence (the ICC)." Gantz was the military's chief of staff during a 2014 war between Israel and militants in Hamas-controlled Gaza. The ICC has pointed to that conflict as a potential issue to be probed. Asked how many Israelis, including himself, might expect to be subject to arrest should the probe lead to criminal investigations, Gantz said, "I guess several hundred, but we will take care of everybody." Gantz called that 'an estimate', declining to say if Israel had drawn up a list of officials. Israel will provide legal assistance to any implicated Israelis and will give them legal warnings regarding travel if necessary, Gantz said. Asked if he himself might change his travel plans in light of the ICC probe, Gantz said, "So far, no."

Israel to protect hundreds of personnel against ICC probe 

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile&nbsp;defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year.

Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud.&nbsp;

New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years.&nbsp;

Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc.&nbsp; 
On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White."

"I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said.&nbsp;

Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country."

A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry.

That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn.&nbsp;

Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis.&nbsp;

Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." 
Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote.

(With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

Israel Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi left Blue and White party on Wednesday. This is the latest high profile defection from the bloc led by Defence Minister Benny Gantz. The party ran neck-to-neck with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu's right wing Likud party during three inconclusive elections held between April 2019 and March 2020. The party however has seen dissent ever since Benny Gantz agreed to form coalition government with Netanyahu earlier this year. Ashkenazi, like Gantz a former army chief, had been Gantz's top ally in the coalition that collapsed last week after failing to pass a budget, amid bitter acrimony between Blue and White and Likud. New elections have been set for March 23, Israel's fourth vote in just under two years. Despite Blue and White's cratering poll numbers, Gantz announced Tuesday that he intended to lead the party in the upcoming vote, vowing to be player in the anti-Netanyahu bloc. On Wednesday, Ashkenazi tweeted that he did "not intend to contest in the next election with Blue and White." "I will take a break to consider the path ahead," he said. Gantz said in a statement that he respected Ashkenazi's decision to leave the party and expressed his "heartfelt gratitude for these past two years of partnership for the good of our country." A Blue and White spokesperson told AFP that Gantz had not asked Ashkenazi to resign from the foreign ministry. That marks a departure compared to Gantz's response to the defection of outgoing justice minister Avi Nissenkorn. Nissenkorn bolted from Blue and White to join a new centrist party formed by veteran Tel Aviv mayor Ron Huldai, called The Israelis. Gantz asked Nissenkorn to resign from the justice ministry on Tuesday on grounds that Nissenkorn had "chosen his new political home." Recent polls indicate Blue and White will win just handful of seats in the March vote. (With AFP inputs)

Israel Foreign Minister Ashkenazi quits Gantz's Blue and White Party

Netanyahu and his former election rival, Defence Minister Benny Gantz, established a unity government in May in the wake of three inconclusive elections held since April 2019.

Israel to hold snap election in March, fourth in two years

For Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu, this year should have been the best of his political career as he's managed what no other Israeli prime minister could - four peace deals and counting.

Under Netanyahu's leadership and America's nudge, Arab nations are normalising ties with Israel but foreign policy wins do not always translate into domestic political gains and so Netanyahu will have to fight again to retain his chair.

Israel is bracing for its fourth election in two years. The unity government of Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz has crumbled after the two sides failed to pass an annual budget as Israel's parliament the Knesset was dissolved on Tuesday.

The next election is in March and Netanyahu remains the favourite, however, he faces challenging days ahead.

The Speaker of the Knesset announced that Israel will have another election. The first three elections were inconclusive but the pandemic forced Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz to join hands and a rare government of national unity was formed but it didn't last even nine months.

"I must say that unfortunately we were unable to find enough common ground to prevent another round of elections and enable the 23rd Knesset and its members to exercise the mandate given us," Knesset Speaker Yariv Levin, said.

"We are all going to face a difficult election campaign, and I call on each and every one of us, and on each and every Israeli citizen to refrain from exacerbating tensions and to do everything possible so that the election campaign is conducted and concludes in an orderly manner and without displays of violence," the Speaker added.

After the deadline to pass the Budget expired, the leaders were quick to switch to campaign mode with each side blaming the other for the crisis as Netanyahu fired the first shot. However, among the people, the frustration is palpable. They blame the leaders for failing to deliver a functioning government with the pandemic still raging Israelis say an election is the last thing they need right now.

"I think the early election is very bad for Israel and in general it's a very frustrating situation that we got ourselves into. The political standstill for the past few years is very very bad in general and our leadership is not doing what it's supposed to do which is to take care of Israeli citizens and the situation is very very very sad," Mickie Reshef, 32-year-old project manager, said.

"Well, naturally, a fourth election in less than two years isn't what the economy needs right now, isn't what the country needs, isn't what the people needs, in the middle of the pandemic - it's not over yet - we have started with the vaccines but a fourth election isn't good for anybody I think," Yazid Ershied, 22-year-old lawyer says.

Netanyahu is fighting to retain the prime minister's office for the sixth term. He faces another rival this time - Gideon Saar, a defector from Netanyahu's Likud party. Saar is an experienced hand. He has served as Israel's education and interior minister.&nbsp;

Now, the Likud rebel wants to eat into Netanyahu's support base. An opinion poll shows Saar drawing even with Netanyahu with Benny Gantz falling behind.

Political competition is not Netanyahu's only problem, public outrage is also a major challenge. There is anger over his response to the Wuhan virus though Israel has already begun rolling out vaccines, but the prime minister faces corruption charges.

The campaign for the next election will unfold during the hearings against Netanyahu. The court proceedings may require him to appear in the defendant's dock several times despite the tough odds, Netanyahu has promised to fight and with a new challenger turning this election into a three-way contest, Israel's political crisis is set to grind on.

For Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu, this year should have been the best of his political career as he's managed what no other Israeli prime minister could - four peace deals and counting.

For Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu, this year should have been the best of his political career as he's managed what no other Israeli prime minister could - four peace deals and counting. Under Netanyahu's leadership and America's nudge, Arab nations are normalising ties with Israel but foreign policy wins do not always translate into domestic political gains and so Netanyahu will have to fight again to retain his chair. Israel is bracing for its fourth election in two years. The unity government of Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz has crumbled after the two sides failed to pass an annual budget as Israel's parliament the Knesset was dissolved on Tuesday. The next election is in March and Netanyahu remains the favourite, however, he faces challenging days ahead. The Speaker of the Knesset announced that Israel will have another election. The first three elections were inconclusive but the pandemic forced Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz to join hands and a rare government of national unity was formed but it didn't last even nine months. "I must say that unfortunately we were unable to find enough common ground to prevent another round of elections and enable the 23rd Knesset and its members to exercise the mandate given us," Knesset Speaker Yariv Levin, said. "We are all going to face a difficult election campaign, and I call on each and every one of us, and on each and every Israeli citizen to refrain from exacerbating tensions and to do everything possible so that the election campaign is conducted and concludes in an orderly manner and without displays of violence," the Speaker added. After the deadline to pass the Budget expired, the leaders were quick to switch to campaign mode with each side blaming the other for the crisis as Netanyahu fired the first shot. However, among the people, the frustration is palpable. They blame the leaders for failing to deliver a functioning government with the pandemic still raging Israelis say an election is the last thing they need right now. "I think the early election is very bad for Israel and in general it's a very frustrating situation that we got ourselves into. The political standstill for the past few years is very very bad in general and our leadership is not doing what it's supposed to do which is to take care of Israeli citizens and the situation is very very very sad," Mickie Reshef, 32-year-old project manager, said. "Well, naturally, a fourth election in less than two years isn't what the economy needs right now, isn't what the country needs, isn't what the people needs, in the middle of the pandemic - it's not over yet - we have started with the vaccines but a fourth election isn't good for anybody I think," Yazid Ershied, 22-year-old lawyer says. Netanyahu is fighting to retain the prime minister's office for the sixth term. He faces another rival this time - Gideon Saar, a defector from Netanyahu's Likud party. Saar is an experienced hand. He has served as Israel's education and interior minister. Now, the Likud rebel wants to eat into Netanyahu's support base. An opinion poll shows Saar drawing even with Netanyahu with Benny Gantz falling behind. Political competition is not Netanyahu's only problem, public outrage is also a major challenge. There is anger over his response to the Wuhan virus though Israel has already begun rolling out vaccines, but the prime minister faces corruption charges. The campaign for the next election will unfold during the hearings against Netanyahu. The court proceedings may require him to appear in the defendant's dock several times despite the tough odds, Netanyahu has promised to fight and with a new challenger turning this election into a three-way contest, Israel's political crisis is set to grind on.

Netanyahu faces new opponent Gideon Saar as Israel braces for fourth election in two years

The dissolution bill next heads to a parliamentary committee, giving Gantz and Netanyahu a week or two to try to salvage their troubled alliance.

Israel appears headed to 4th election within 2 years

benny-gantz

Benny Gantz, News on Benny Gantz, stories on Benny Gantz, articles on Benny Gantz, Benny Gantz stories at Wion, Benny Gantz news, Benny Gantz latest news

benny gantz