Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-polls-the-rise-and-rise-of-israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-208436">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-how-does-the-country-vote-208213"> April 9 election</a>.

In office for the past decade, Netanyahu won a fifth term despite an announcement by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in February that he intends to charge the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing.

"At a time of great turmoil in our region, we have managed not only to maintain the state's security and stability, we have even managed to turn Israel into a rising world power," Netanyahu said at the nomination ceremony after President Reuven Rivlin gave him the mandate to form a new government.

Netanyahu has 28 days, with a two-week extension if needed, to complete the task. If, as seems likely, he succeeds, he will become in July Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

Netanyahu has said he intends to build a coalition with five far-right, right-wing and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties that would give the government, led by his Likud party, 65 seats. No party has ever won an outright majority in the 120-seat Knesset.

PEACE PLAN

Among the most pressing issues awaiting the new government will be US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Trump's senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday it would be unveiled once the new Israeli government is in place and after the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, which ends in early June. The plan, Kushner said, would require compromise by all parties.

A right-wing coalition in Israel would, however, likely object to any proposed territorial concessions to the Palestinians, who are boycotting the Trump administration over what they see as its pro-Israel bias.

Such a coalition would also be less likely to pressure Netanyahu to step down if he is indicted for corruption.

Netanyahu is under no legal obligation to resign if charges are brought against him and has said he plans to serve Israel for many more years. He can still argue, at a pre-trial hearing whose date has not been set, against the formal filing of bribery and fraud charges against him.

The election, brought forward from November, was widely seen in Israel as a bid by Netanyahu to win a renewed mandate in the hopes that it would strengthen his hand in the legal proceedings against him.

"I am not afraid of threats and I am not deterred by the media. The public has given me its full confidence, clearly and unequivocally, and I will continue to do everything in order to serve you, the citizens of Israel," he said on Facebook on Tuesday.

Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an April 9 election.

Israel's president on Wednesday nominated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to head the next government, after he won the backing of a majority of members of parliament following an April 9 election. In office for the past decade, Netanyahu won a fifth term despite an announcement by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in February that he intends to charge the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing. "At a time of great turmoil in our region, we have managed not only to maintain the state's security and stability, we have even managed to turn Israel into a rising world power," Netanyahu said at the nomination ceremony after President Reuven Rivlin gave him the mandate to form a new government. Netanyahu has 28 days, with a two-week extension if needed, to complete the task. If, as seems likely, he succeeds, he will become in July Israel's longest-serving prime minister. Netanyahu has said he intends to build a coalition with five far-right, right-wing and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties that would give the government, led by his Likud party, 65 seats. No party has ever won an outright majority in the 120-seat Knesset. PEACE PLAN Among the most pressing issues awaiting the new government will be US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Trump's senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday it would be unveiled once the new Israeli government is in place and after the Muslim holiday of Ramadan, which ends in early June. The plan, Kushner said, would require compromise by all parties. A right-wing coalition in Israel would, however, likely object to any proposed territorial concessions to the Palestinians, who are boycotting the Trump administration over what they see as its pro-Israel bias. Such a coalition would also be less likely to pressure Netanyahu to step down if he is indicted for corruption. Netanyahu is under no legal obligation to resign if charges are brought against him and has said he plans to serve Israel for many more years. He can still argue, at a pre-trial hearing whose date has not been set, against the formal filing of bribery and fraud charges against him. The election, brought forward from November, was widely seen in Israel as a bid by Netanyahu to win a renewed mandate in the hopes that it would strengthen his hand in the legal proceedings against him. "I am not afraid of threats and I am not deterred by the media. The public has given me its full confidence, clearly and unequivocally, and I will continue to do everything in order to serve you, the citizens of Israel," he said on Facebook on Tuesday.

Netanyahu invited to form new government in Israel

With more than 97 percent of votes counted, Netanyahu`s conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset`s 120 seats.

Israel polls: Netanyahu could form coalition government

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election victory improved the chances of a forthcoming US peace plan, despite deep skepticism from the Palestinians.

Trump, who had enthusiastically backed the right-wing premier's bid for a fifth mandate, said that he telephoned Netanyahu to offer congratulations as results gave Netanyahu a narrow parliamentary majority.

"The fact that Bibi won, I think we'll see some pretty good action in terms of peace," Trump told reporters, using Netanyahu's nickname.

"Everybody said you can't have peace in the Middle East with Israel and Palestinians. I think we have a chance and I think we now have a better chance," he added.

Centrist challenger Benny Gantz, a former military chief, conceded defeat with Netanyahu poised to form a coalition of hawkish and religious parties to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

Trump had welcomed Netanyahu to the White House just two weeks before the election to offer his latest landmark gesture of support -- US recognition of Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, captured from Syria in 1967.

Peace plan doubts

Palestinian leaders are deeply sceptical of the US peace plan and have ruled out Trump as an honest broker after he recognized bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The peace plan is being developed by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, an Orthodox Jew whose close family ties to Netanyahu have heightened Palestinian suspicions on whether the US administration can serve as an honest broker.

US officials have only revealed vague outlines of what the plan might propose, but Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has suggested it could break abruptly with precedent.

In two days of testimony before Senate committees, Pompeo declined to say whether the United States stood by its longstanding support for an independent Palestinian state.

"For decades now, there have been all these wonderful experts that have tried to resolve this crisis in the Middle East, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people, and they have each failed," Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday.

"So the old set of ideas isn't worth retreading. They have simply not succeeded," he said.

Pressed by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine -- who described himself as "kind of shocked" that Pompeo would not reaffirm US support for a two-state solution -- the top US diplomat said the United States wanted "good things" for the Palestinians but that a solution had to be acceptable to both sides.

"I would argue that millions of man-hours have been spent to try and build out a two-state solution. It hasn't worked to date. It may work this afternoon, but it hasn't worked yet," Pompeo said.

Pompeo said the peace plan would come out "before too long" and also include ideas aimed at Gulf Arab states, which have found increasing common ground with Israel in their hostility to Iran.

Vow to annex settlements

Pompeo repeatedly declined to weigh in on Netanyahu's election-eve vow to annex Jewish settlements built in the Israeli-occupied West Bank -- a move that would seek to formalize Israeli control over parts of the supposedly future Palestinian state.

Such a move would previously have been almost unthinkable, leaving Israel diplomatically isolated. But some analysts believe that Washington's relatively less controversial Golan Heights recognition may have paved the way.

In another sign of Israel's current feeling of strength, Netanyahu insisted last week that he would refuse removal of any Jewish settlements built inside occupied Palestinian land as part of any peace plan.

Netanyahu said he told Trump "there shouldn't be the removal of even one settlement."

Since taking office, Trump has also closed the Palestinians' office in Washington, pulled the United States from UN bodies accused of anti-Israel bias and cut off funding for the UN agency that provides schooling and other services to Palestinian refugees.

While Trump has rallied behind Netanyahu, the Israeli leader has seen growing disdain among Democrats.&nbsp;

Beto O'Rourke, a Democratic candidate for president, called Netanyahu "a racist" for his alliance with a far-right party and for warning about voting by Israel's Arab citizens.

Candidate Bernie Sanders, who is Jewish, has called Netanyahu "extreme right-wing" and said Trump needed to show "good faith" in brokering a peace deal.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election victory improved the chances of a forthcoming US peace plan, despite deep skepticism from the Palestinians.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's election victory improved the chances of a forthcoming US peace plan, despite deep skepticism from the Palestinians. Trump, who had enthusiastically backed the right-wing premier's bid for a fifth mandate, said that he telephoned Netanyahu to offer congratulations as results gave Netanyahu a narrow parliamentary majority. "The fact that Bibi won, I think we'll see some pretty good action in terms of peace," Trump told reporters, using Netanyahu's nickname. "Everybody said you can't have peace in the Middle East with Israel and Palestinians. I think we have a chance and I think we now have a better chance," he added. Centrist challenger Benny Gantz, a former military chief, conceded defeat with Netanyahu poised to form a coalition of hawkish and religious parties to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister. Trump had welcomed Netanyahu to the White House just two weeks before the election to offer his latest landmark gesture of support -- US recognition of Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, captured from Syria in 1967. Peace plan doubts Palestinian leaders are deeply sceptical of the US peace plan and have ruled out Trump as an honest broker after he recognized bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The peace plan is being developed by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, an Orthodox Jew whose close family ties to Netanyahu have heightened Palestinian suspicions on whether the US administration can serve as an honest broker. US officials have only revealed vague outlines of what the plan might propose, but Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has suggested it could break abruptly with precedent. In two days of testimony before Senate committees, Pompeo declined to say whether the United States stood by its longstanding support for an independent Palestinian state. "For decades now, there have been all these wonderful experts that have tried to resolve this crisis in the Middle East, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people, and they have each failed," Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday. "So the old set of ideas isn't worth retreading. They have simply not succeeded," he said. Pressed by Democratic Senator Tim Kaine -- who described himself as "kind of shocked" that Pompeo would not reaffirm US support for a two-state solution -- the top US diplomat said the United States wanted "good things" for the Palestinians but that a solution had to be acceptable to both sides. "I would argue that millions of man-hours have been spent to try and build out a two-state solution. It hasn't worked to date. It may work this afternoon, but it hasn't worked yet," Pompeo said. Pompeo said the peace plan would come out "before too long" and also include ideas aimed at Gulf Arab states, which have found increasing common ground with Israel in their hostility to Iran. Vow to annex settlements Pompeo repeatedly declined to weigh in on Netanyahu's election-eve vow to annex Jewish settlements built in the Israeli-occupied West Bank -- a move that would seek to formalize Israeli control over parts of the supposedly future Palestinian state. Such a move would previously have been almost unthinkable, leaving Israel diplomatically isolated. But some analysts believe that Washington's relatively less controversial Golan Heights recognition may have paved the way. In another sign of Israel's current feeling of strength, Netanyahu insisted last week that he would refuse removal of any Jewish settlements built inside occupied Palestinian land as part of any peace plan. Netanyahu said he told Trump "there shouldn't be the removal of even one settlement." Since taking office, Trump has also closed the Palestinians' office in Washington, pulled the United States from UN bodies accused of anti-Israel bias and cut off funding for the UN agency that provides schooling and other services to Palestinian refugees. While Trump has rallied behind Netanyahu, the Israeli leader has seen growing disdain among Democrats. Beto O'Rourke, a Democratic candidate for president, called Netanyahu "a racist" for his alliance with a far-right party and for warning about voting by Israel's Arab citizens. Candidate Bernie Sanders, who is Jewish, has called Netanyahu "extreme right-wing" and said Trump needed to show "good faith" in brokering a peace deal.

Benjamin Netanyahu win gives US peace plan 'better chance:' Trump

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to form a right-wing governing coalition on Thursday after securing victory in a high-stakes Israeli election despite a strong challenge from a centrist alliance.

The results from Tuesday's vote came despite corruption allegations against the 69-year-old premier and kept him on course to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister later this year.

The allegations are likely to play an important role in coalition negotiations as many analysts expect Netanyahu to demand pledges from potential partners to agree to remain in his government if he is indicted.

Netanyahu will rely in part on politicians of the nationalist right opposed to a Palestinian state to put together his government.

His current government is already seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history, and his next is expected to be similar if not even further to the right.

Netanyahu himself, in a campaign pledge just three days before polling day, pledged to begin annexing settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Applying sovereignty in the West Bank on a large scale could effectively end remaining hopes for a two-state solution with the Palestinians.

Netanyahu's pledge was widely seen as an appeal to the far right, and it appears to have worked: he boosted the number of parliamentary seats for his Likud, while smaller, far-right parties struggled.

The Likud said late on Wednesday that Netanyahu "will form a right-wing government and he is already in advanced negotiations with the national camp partners."

'Advanced negotiations'

Throughout the campaign, Netanyahu highlighted his bond with US President Donald Trump, who has swung US policy sharply in Israel's favour and openly backed the prime minister.

On Wednesday, Trump said the incumbent's election to a fifth term gives the White House's long-awaited peace plan, expected to be released in the coming weeks, a "better chance".

It was not clear what he meant.

He also tweeted a picture of a Netanyahu supporter waving a Trump flag and telephoned the premier to offer congratulations.

The election was seen as a referendum on the veteran prime minister, who has built a reputation as the guarantor of Israel's security and economic growth, but whose divisive right-wing populism and alleged corruption led to calls for change.

The results reflected his deft political skills, Israel's shift to the right and wide satisfaction with Netanyahu's achievements, but also the fact that many voters are fed up with him.

The new centrist Blue and White alliance put together by ex-military chief Benny Gantz will finish with a similar number of seats to the Likud even though it came together less than two months before the polls.

Gantz's alliance, which conceded defeat on Wednesday night, however, could not peel away enough right-wing votes to unseat Netanyahu.

The results showed that the Likud together with other right-wing parties allied to the prime minister would hold around 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament.

Final official results are expected to be announced by Friday.

They leave President Reuven Rivlin, who must ask one of the candidates to form a government, with little choice but to pick Netanyahu.

Intensive coalition negotiations could drag on for days or even weeks.

Rivlin said he would begin consultations with party leaders next week ahead of making his decision.

His office said the consultations would be broadcast live in their entirety for the first time.

'Make life bitter'

Gantz, a 59-year-old former paratrooper, mounted a strong challenge by brandishing his security credentials while pledging to undo damage he says Netanyahu has inflicted on the country with divisive politics.

"We respect the decision of the people," Gantz said Wednesday night.

Former finance minister Yair Lapid, who co-led Blue and White, vowed to "make life bitter for the Netanyahu government".

The close race between the two main parties had led to uncertainty after polls closed Tuesday night and exit surveys were released.

Both Netanyahu and Gantz claimed victory after the initial exit polls, though even then it appeared Netanyahu was best placed to form a coalition.

Speaking in the early hours of Wednesday at the Likud's post-election party in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu called it a "magnificent victory."

The vote had been expected to be close as Netanyahu faced potential corruption charges.

Fighting for his political life, he spent the weeks ahead of the vote campaigning furiously to energise his right-wing base.

Netanyahu has been premier for a total of more than 13 years.

But "King Bibi," as some have called him, now faces the prospect of becoming the first sitting prime minister to be indicted.

The attorney general has announced he intends to charge Netanyahu with bribery, fraud and breach of trust pending an upcoming hearing.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to form a right-wing governing coalition on Thursday after securing victory in a high-stakes Israeli election despite a strong challenge from a centrist alliance.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sought to form a right-wing governing coalition on Thursday after securing victory in a high-stakes Israeli election despite a strong challenge from a centrist alliance. The results from Tuesday's vote came despite corruption allegations against the 69-year-old premier and kept him on course to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister later this year. The allegations are likely to play an important role in coalition negotiations as many analysts expect Netanyahu to demand pledges from potential partners to agree to remain in his government if he is indicted. Netanyahu will rely in part on politicians of the nationalist right opposed to a Palestinian state to put together his government. His current government is already seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history, and his next is expected to be similar if not even further to the right. Netanyahu himself, in a campaign pledge just three days before polling day, pledged to begin annexing settlements in the occupied West Bank. Applying sovereignty in the West Bank on a large scale could effectively end remaining hopes for a two-state solution with the Palestinians. Netanyahu's pledge was widely seen as an appeal to the far right, and it appears to have worked: he boosted the number of parliamentary seats for his Likud, while smaller, far-right parties struggled. The Likud said late on Wednesday that Netanyahu "will form a right-wing government and he is already in advanced negotiations with the national camp partners." 'Advanced negotiations' Throughout the campaign, Netanyahu highlighted his bond with US President Donald Trump, who has swung US policy sharply in Israel's favour and openly backed the prime minister. On Wednesday, Trump said the incumbent's election to a fifth term gives the White House's long-awaited peace plan, expected to be released in the coming weeks, a "better chance". It was not clear what he meant. He also tweeted a picture of a Netanyahu supporter waving a Trump flag and telephoned the premier to offer congratulations. The election was seen as a referendum on the veteran prime minister, who has built a reputation as the guarantor of Israel's security and economic growth, but whose divisive right-wing populism and alleged corruption led to calls for change. The results reflected his deft political skills, Israel's shift to the right and wide satisfaction with Netanyahu's achievements, but also the fact that many voters are fed up with him. The new centrist Blue and White alliance put together by ex-military chief Benny Gantz will finish with a similar number of seats to the Likud even though it came together less than two months before the polls. Gantz's alliance, which conceded defeat on Wednesday night, however, could not peel away enough right-wing votes to unseat Netanyahu. The results showed that the Likud together with other right-wing parties allied to the prime minister would hold around 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament. Final official results are expected to be announced by Friday. They leave President Reuven Rivlin, who must ask one of the candidates to form a government, with little choice but to pick Netanyahu. Intensive coalition negotiations could drag on for days or even weeks. Rivlin said he would begin consultations with party leaders next week ahead of making his decision. His office said the consultations would be broadcast live in their entirety for the first time. 'Make life bitter' Gantz, a 59-year-old former paratrooper, mounted a strong challenge by brandishing his security credentials while pledging to undo damage he says Netanyahu has inflicted on the country with divisive politics. "We respect the decision of the people," Gantz said Wednesday night. Former finance minister Yair Lapid, who co-led Blue and White, vowed to "make life bitter for the Netanyahu government". The close race between the two main parties had led to uncertainty after polls closed Tuesday night and exit surveys were released. Both Netanyahu and Gantz claimed victory after the initial exit polls, though even then it appeared Netanyahu was best placed to form a coalition. Speaking in the early hours of Wednesday at the Likud's post-election party in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu called it a "magnificent victory." The vote had been expected to be close as Netanyahu faced potential corruption charges. Fighting for his political life, he spent the weeks ahead of the vote campaigning furiously to energise his right-wing base. Netanyahu has been premier for a total of more than 13 years. But "King Bibi," as some have called him, now faces the prospect of becoming the first sitting prime minister to be indicted. The attorney general has announced he intends to charge Netanyahu with bribery, fraud and breach of trust pending an upcoming hearing.

Netanyahu looks to form right-wing government after victory

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said "It is a night of colossal victory," early on Wednesday (April 10) after updated exit polls of the country's national elections on Tuesday (April 9) showed Netanyahu's Likud winning more parliamentary seats than his main challenger Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party.

Israel election: Exit polls predict neck to neck battle

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s conservative prime minister for the past decade, and his chief rival, Benny Gantz, a centrist former military chief, were locked in a tight race in Tuesday’s parliamentary election. Watch video to know more.

Israel election: Netanyahu slightly ahead in tight race

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes.

At the Central Election Committee logistical centre near Jerusalem, about 300 tons of papers carried by hundreds of trucks from voting stations all over Israel, will be disposed of or recycled in the coming days, the committee said.

Netanyahu secured a record fifth term in office despite running neck-and-neck with his challenger Benny Gantz, the country's three main television channels said on Wednesday.

With 97 per cent of the votes counted, neither of the candidates' parties had captured a ruling majority, but Netanyahu was clearly in a strong position to form a coalition government with other right-wing factions that have backed him.

The closely contested race was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases and has denied wrongdoing in all of them.

The veteran right-wing leader's Likud party and Gantz's new centrist Blue and White party both won 35 seats, according to the Knesset website and the Israeli TV channels. That would mean a five-seat gain for Likud.

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes.

As it became clear on Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has won the Israeli national election, workers were busy cleaning up the waste accumulated on elections day: ballot slips and cardboard ballot boxes. At the Central Election Committee logistical centre near Jerusalem, about 300 tons of papers carried by hundreds of trucks from voting stations all over Israel, will be disposed of or recycled in the coming days, the committee said. Netanyahu secured a record fifth term in office despite running neck-and-neck with his challenger Benny Gantz, the country's three main television channels said on Wednesday. With 97 per cent of the votes counted, neither of the candidates' parties had captured a ruling majority, but Netanyahu was clearly in a strong position to form a coalition government with other right-wing factions that have backed him. The closely contested race was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases and has denied wrongdoing in all of them. The veteran right-wing leader's Likud party and Gantz's new centrist Blue and White party both won 35 seats, according to the Knesset website and the Israeli TV channels. That would mean a five-seat gain for Likud.

Over 300 tons of ballot slips and boxes go to waste after Israel's election day

Watch current reports of Israel election by Daniele Pagani, West-Asia chief of WION from Israel. Watch complete video to get proper details.

Will Israeli PM Netanyahu secure 5th term?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-wins-reelection-with-parliamentary-majority-tally-209271">winning the elections</a> in his country.

"My dear friend Bibi, Congratulations! You are a great friend of India, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to take our bilateral partnership to new heights. @netanyahu," PM Modi said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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My dear friend Bibi, Congratulations! You are a great friend of India, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to take our bilateral partnership to new heights. <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1115916217431277568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Netanyahu secured a clear path to re-election on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed.

With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier.

Modi and Netanyahu developed cordial connect after the Indian Prime Minister's visit to Israel in July, 2017 - first ever by an Indian Prime Minister. He was received at the airport by Netanyahu - an honour afforded to only a few select leaders.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Aapka swagat hai mere dost' welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel <a href="https://t.co/QjtsoCek2R">pic.twitter.com/QjtsoCek2R</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/882227611501346816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Modi was welcomed by Netanyahu with a hug. "Aapka swagat hai mere dost (Welcome my friend)," said Netanyahu in his welcome address.

Six months later, Modi hosted Netanyahu and wife Sara in his home state Gujarat. He also presented a special gift - a water desalination and purification jeep - to PM Modi.

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PM Netanyahu and <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> attend a demonstration of a mobile seawater desalination unit. <a href="https://t.co/FLhZsScgXM">pic.twitter.com/FLhZsScgXM</a>
— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/882894955362103296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
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This was the second visit of any Israeli Prime Minister to India. Prior to this, Ariel Sharon came to India in 2003 during PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee tenure.

Watch: A brief profile of Israel's longest-serving prime minister

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R974E5K10kw" width="560"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for winning the elections in his country. "My dear friend Bibi, Congratulations!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for winning the elections in his country. "My dear friend Bibi, Congratulations! You are a great friend of India, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to take our bilateral partnership to new heights. @netanyahu," PM Modi said on Twitter. My dear friend Bibi, Congratulations! You are a great friend of India, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to take our bilateral partnership to new heights. @netanyahu — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 10, 2019 × Netanyahu secured a clear path to re-election on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed. With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier. Modi and Netanyahu developed cordial connect after the Indian Prime Minister's visit to Israel in July, 2017 - first ever by an Indian Prime Minister. He was received at the airport by Netanyahu - an honour afforded to only a few select leaders. #WATCH Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Aapka swagat hai mere dost' welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel pic.twitter.com/QjtsoCek2R — ANI (@ANI) July 4, 2017 × Modi was welcomed by Netanyahu with a hug. "Aapka swagat hai mere dost (Welcome my friend)," said Netanyahu in his welcome address. Six months later, Modi hosted Netanyahu and wife Sara in his home state Gujarat. He also presented a special gift - a water desalination and purification jeep - to PM Modi. PM Netanyahu and @PMOIndia @narendramodi attend a demonstration of a mobile seawater desalination unit. pic.twitter.com/FLhZsScgXM — PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) July 6, 2017 × This was the second visit of any Israeli Prime Minister to India. Prior to this, Ariel Sharon came to India in 2003 during PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee tenure. Watch: A brief profile of Israel's longest-serving prime minister

Look forward to work with you: PM Modi congratulates Netanyahu for poll win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-all-you-need-to-know-about-benjamin-netanyahu-209056">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-benjamin-netanyahu-projected-to-win-israel-polls-report-209198">parliamentary majority</a> despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed.

With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier.

The close and often vitriolic contest was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases,&nbsp;and has denied wrongdoing in all of them.

Despite that, Netanyahu gained four seats compared to his outgoing coalition government, according to a spreadsheet published by the Central Elections Committee of parties that won enough votes to enter the next parliament.

"It is a night of colossal victory," the 69-year-old Netanyahu told cheering supporters in a late-night speech at Likud headquarters after Tuesday's vote.

"He's a magician," the crowd chanted as fireworks flared and Netanyahu kissed his wife Sara.

Tel Aviv Stock Exchange main indexes opened up 0.5 per cent on Wednesday, showing confidence in a prime minister who has overseen a humming economy and restrained security challenges.

His challenger, the new Blue and White party of ex-general Benny Gantz, claimed a more modest victory after winning a 35-seat tie with Likud. Unless he reverses on campaign pledges to shun Netanyahu and joins him in a future broad coalition, Gantz looked destined to lead a centre-left parliamentary opposition.

"The skies may look overcast...but they cannot conceal the sun of hope that we have brought to the Israeli people and society," Gantz, 59, wrote in an open letter to supporters.

Should Netanyahu retain the helm, he will become the longest-serving Israeli prime minister in July, overtaking the country's founding father, David Ben-Gurion. That could be scuppered if criminal charges are filed and force his removal.

Immunity?

An indictment decision would follow a review hearing where Netanyahu can be expected to argue he should be spared, in the national interest. Some political analysts predict he may try to pass a law granting himself immunity, as a sitting leader, from trial.

During the campaign, the rival parties accused each other of corruption, fostering bigotry and being soft on security.

Netanyahu highlighted his close relationship with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who delighted Israelis and angered Palestinians by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017 and moving the US&nbsp;Embassy to the holy city last May.

Two weeks before the election, Trump signed a proclamation, with Netanyahu at his side at the White House, recognising Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war.

In a rare turn during the race towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Netanyahu further alarmed Palestinians by pledging to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank if re-elected. Palestinians seek a state there and in the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Netanyahu's pre-election promise was widely seen as an attempt to draw right-wing votes rather than a change of policy. But with Trump’s moves on Jerusalem and The Golan, the prime minister may feel emboldened to advocate for annexation.

Commenting on the election, Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said, "Israelis have voted to preserve the status quo. They have said no to peace and yes to the occupation".

The last round of US-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014.

Trump is expected to release his administration's long-awaited Middle East peace plan after the election. If it includes Israeli concessions to the Palestinians, Netanyahu’s probable far-right coalition allies will likely object.

Once the vote tally is final, President Reuven Rivlin will ask parties that have won parliamentary seats who they support for prime minister. He will then pick a party leader to try to form a coalition, giving the candidate 28 days to do so, with a two-week extension if needed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured a clear path to reelection on Wednesday, with religious-rightist parties set to hand him a parliamentary majority despite a close contest against his main centrist challenger, a vote tally showed. With more than 97 per cent of votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party looked likely to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government - a record fifth term as premier. The close and often vitriolic contest was widely seen in Israel as a referendum on Netanyahu's character and record in the face of corruption allegations. He faces possible indictment in three graft cases, and has denied wrongdoing in all of them. Despite that, Netanyahu gained four seats compared to his outgoing coalition government, according to a spreadsheet published by the Central Elections Committee of parties that won enough votes to enter the next parliament. "It is a night of colossal victory," the 69-year-old Netanyahu told cheering supporters in a late-night speech at Likud headquarters after Tuesday's vote. "He's a magician," the crowd chanted as fireworks flared and Netanyahu kissed his wife Sara. Tel Aviv Stock Exchange main indexes opened up 0.5 per cent on Wednesday, showing confidence in a prime minister who has overseen a humming economy and restrained security challenges. His challenger, the new Blue and White party of ex-general Benny Gantz, claimed a more modest victory after winning a 35-seat tie with Likud. Unless he reverses on campaign pledges to shun Netanyahu and joins him in a future broad coalition, Gantz looked destined to lead a centre-left parliamentary opposition. "The skies may look overcast...but they cannot conceal the sun of hope that we have brought to the Israeli people and society," Gantz, 59, wrote in an open letter to supporters. Should Netanyahu retain the helm, he will become the longest-serving Israeli prime minister in July, overtaking the country's founding father, David Ben-Gurion. That could be scuppered if criminal charges are filed and force his removal. Immunity? An indictment decision would follow a review hearing where Netanyahu can be expected to argue he should be spared, in the national interest. Some political analysts predict he may try to pass a law granting himself immunity, as a sitting leader, from trial. During the campaign, the rival parties accused each other of corruption, fostering bigotry and being soft on security. Netanyahu highlighted his close relationship with US President Donald Trump, who delighted Israelis and angered Palestinians by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017 and moving the US Embassy to the holy city last May. Two weeks before the election, Trump signed a proclamation, with Netanyahu at his side at the White House, recognising Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. In a rare turn during the race towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Netanyahu further alarmed Palestinians by pledging to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank if re-elected. Palestinians seek a state there and in the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Netanyahu's pre-election promise was widely seen as an attempt to draw right-wing votes rather than a change of policy. But with Trump’s moves on Jerusalem and The Golan, the prime minister may feel emboldened to advocate for annexation. Commenting on the election, Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat said, "Israelis have voted to preserve the status quo. They have said no to peace and yes to the occupation". The last round of US-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians collapsed in 2014. Trump is expected to release his administration's long-awaited Middle East peace plan after the election. If it includes Israeli concessions to the Palestinians, Netanyahu’s probable far-right coalition allies will likely object. Once the vote tally is final, President Reuven Rivlin will ask parties that have won parliamentary seats who they support for prime minister. He will then pick a party leader to try to form a coalition, giving the candidate 28 days to do so, with a two-week extension if needed.

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