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

Benjamin Netanyahu wins Likud party leadership race

A massive cargo&nbsp;ship&nbsp;drifted onto a beach in&nbsp;southern&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-curbs-internet-before-possible-new-protests-reports-270352">Israel</a> on Thursday after heavy winds and&nbsp;stormy weather forced the vessel away from its anchor point&nbsp;near&nbsp;the&nbsp;port&nbsp;of Ashdod.

The 90 metre-long Zelek Star was carrying cement and other goods from Greece to Israel when it was swept away and approached Oranim Beach, officials said. The beach's sandy Mediterranean shoreline is popular with residents and tourists.

Photos showed locals walking along the beach with the 14 metre-high vessel towering over them in the background, abutting a stone seawall as shallow waves crashed onto its red exterior.

Captain Yigal Maor, manager of Israel's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-holds-talks-in-greece-en-route-to-brics-summit-261274">Shipping and&nbsp;Ports Authority</a>, said there were 12 crew on board the vessel but that it was the responsibility of the&nbsp;ship's owners to ensure their safety.

The&nbsp;ship&nbsp;carries a Panamanian flag and is owned by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-planes-pound-idlib-as-offensive-escalates-turkey-france-call-for-de-escalation-270092">Turkey</a>-based Fuden&nbsp;Shipping &amp; Trading, according to the website maritime-connector.com. The company could not be reached for comment.

A massive cargo ship drifted onto a beach in southern Israel on Thursday after heavy winds and stormy weather forced the vessel away from its anchor point near the port of Ashdod.

A massive cargo ship drifted onto a beach in southern Israel on Thursday after heavy winds and stormy weather forced the vessel away from its anchor point near the port of Ashdod. The 90 metre-long Zelek Star was carrying cement and other goods from Greece to Israel when it was swept away and approached Oranim Beach, officials said. The beach's sandy Mediterranean shoreline is popular with residents and tourists. Photos showed locals walking along the beach with the 14 metre-high vessel towering over them in the background, abutting a stone seawall as shallow waves crashed onto its red exterior. Captain Yigal Maor, manager of Israel's Shipping and Ports Authority, said there were 12 crew on board the vessel but that it was the responsibility of the ship's owners to ensure their safety. The ship carries a Panamanian flag and is owned by Turkey-based Fuden Shipping & Trading, according to the website maritime-connector.com. The company could not be reached for comment.

Storm beaches merchant ship near southern Israeli port

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

Benjamin Netanyahu rushed offstage as rocket fired from Gaza into Israel

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

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

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

International Criminal Court to probe alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories

Israel looks all set for a hat trick of polls. If by midnight today Israel's political party's are unable to cobble up a coalition then the country will head to the ballot box once again.

WION Dispatch: Israel stuck in 'election loop', midnight deadline to form unity govt

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-jews-confront-rising-tide-of-anti-semitism-174320">anti-Semitism</a>, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech.

The order would extend protections against discrimination under the 1964 Civil Rights Act to people subjected to anti-Semitism on college campuses.

"This is our message to universities: If you want to accept the tremendous amount of federal dollars that you get every year, you must reject anti-Semitism. It's very simple," Trump said during a Hanukkah reception at the White House.

Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, colour, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

"This action makes clear that Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits the federal funding of universities and other institutions that engage in discrimination, applies to institutions that traffic in anti-Semitic hate," Trump said.

J Street, a liberal Jewish-American lobbying group, criticized the order.

"This executive order, like the stalled congressional legislation it is based on, appears designed less to combat anti-Semitism than to have a chilling effect on free speech and to crack down on campus critics of Israel," it said in a statement.

The Anti-Defamation League, which tracks acts of racism, welcomed the order.

"In a climate of rising anti-Semitism, this executive order provides valuable guidance on anti-Semitism, giving law enforcement and campus officials an important additional tool to help identify and fight this pernicious hate," Chief Executive Jonathan Greenblatt said.

"It also reaffirms protection of Jews under Title VI without infringing on First Amendment rights," he said in a statement.

The pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement over Israel’s policies towards Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip has gained support among some university students in recent years.

The movement, however, has received a bipartisan rebuke in the US&nbsp;Congress and many states have passed anti-BDS measures.Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities

Some critics argue that participating in boycotts is protected by Americans' constitutional right to free speech and that legitimate criticism of Israeli policies could be stifled under the name of combating anti-Semitism.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to prohibit federal funding for colleges and universities that allow anti-Semitism, but the move drew some criticism for potentially limiting free speech. The order would extend protections against discrimination under the 1964 Civil Rights Act to people subjected to anti-Semitism on college campuses. "This is our message to universities: If you want to accept the tremendous amount of federal dollars that you get every year, you must reject anti-Semitism. It's very simple," Trump said during a Hanukkah reception at the White House. Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, colour, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. "This action makes clear that Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits the federal funding of universities and other institutions that engage in discrimination, applies to institutions that traffic in anti-Semitic hate," Trump said. J Street, a liberal Jewish-American lobbying group, criticized the order. "This executive order, like the stalled congressional legislation it is based on, appears designed less to combat anti-Semitism than to have a chilling effect on free speech and to crack down on campus critics of Israel," it said in a statement. The Anti-Defamation League, which tracks acts of racism, welcomed the order. "In a climate of rising anti-Semitism, this executive order provides valuable guidance on anti-Semitism, giving law enforcement and campus officials an important additional tool to help identify and fight this pernicious hate," Chief Executive Jonathan Greenblatt said. "It also reaffirms protection of Jews under Title VI without infringing on First Amendment rights," he said in a statement. The pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement over Israel’s policies towards Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip has gained support among some university students in recent years. The movement, however, has received a bipartisan rebuke in the US Congress and many states have passed anti-BDS measures.Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities Some critics argue that participating in boycotts is protected by Americans' constitutional right to free speech and that legitimate criticism of Israeli policies could be stifled under the name of combating anti-Semitism.

Amid criticism, Trump signs order targeting anti-Semitism at universities

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

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

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

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

Israel has shared its flagship connectivity plan that connects the Meditteranean with the gulf even as connectivity has become India's focus last few years both towards its west and east.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Israel Katz met India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Meditteranean dialogue last week and shared the “Tracks for Regional Peace” initiative. In November, Israel had shared its connectivity project with Oman.

Israel's FM, during his meet with EAM Jaishankar, called for the "need to increase the trade between the two countries and the measures required to encourage", according to the readout by Israeli foreign ministry.

The initiative is a rail transport plan that will connect the Meditteranean and the gulf and is based on two&nbsp;central ideas -- Israel will be a land bridge and Jordan will be the regional transportation hub.

A regional rail plan will transport people and cargo from the US and Europe to gulf states in the east. The initiative is inspired by the Hejaz railway that ran from Damascus to Medina during the Ottoman times.

Israel has valley rail line, opened in 2016 connects Haifa connects with Beit She'an and will be extended towards the east to Sheikh Hussein crossing in Jordan and the south towards Jalamah crossing so that Palestinians are also able to connect to it.

According to the Israeli govt the initiative will "build peace" and "encourage stability and create vibrant economies" by connecting middle east.

Both Indian and Israeli sides also "discussed the need to intensify bilateral cooperation on the issues of water, agriculture and technology" with FM Katz inviting EAM Jaishankar to Israel, and "the minister expressing interest in visiting Israel next year".

Israel has shared its flagship connectivity plan that connects the Meditteranean with the gulf even as connectivity has become India's focus last few years both towards its west and east.

Israel has shared its flagship connectivity plan that connects the Meditteranean with the gulf even as connectivity has become India's focus last few years both towards its west and east. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Israel Katz met India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Meditteranean dialogue last week and shared the “Tracks for Regional Peace” initiative. In November, Israel had shared its connectivity project with Oman. Israel's FM, during his meet with EAM Jaishankar, called for the "need to increase the trade between the two countries and the measures required to encourage", according to the readout by Israeli foreign ministry. The initiative is a rail transport plan that will connect the Meditteranean and the gulf and is based on two central ideas -- Israel will be a land bridge and Jordan will be the regional transportation hub. A regional rail plan will transport people and cargo from the US and Europe to gulf states in the east. The initiative is inspired by the Hejaz railway that ran from Damascus to Medina during the Ottoman times. Israel has valley rail line, opened in 2016 connects Haifa connects with Beit She'an and will be extended towards the east to Sheikh Hussein crossing in Jordan and the south towards Jalamah crossing so that Palestinians are also able to connect to it. According to the Israeli govt the initiative will "build peace" and "encourage stability and create vibrant economies" by connecting middle east. Both Indian and Israeli sides also "discussed the need to intensify bilateral cooperation on the issues of water, agriculture and technology" with FM Katz inviting EAM Jaishankar to Israel, and "the minister expressing interest in visiting Israel next year".

Isreal shares its regional connectivity plan with India 

More than 160 cars were vandalised in a Palestinian neighbourhood of Jerusalem with anti-Arab slogans scrawled nearby, Israeli police said Monday, in a suspected hate crime.

The cars in the Shuafaat neighbourhood of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-liberation-organisation-welcomes-eu-court-ruling-on-labelling-israeli-settlement-goods-261607">east Jerusalem</a> had their tyres slashed, with slogans such as "Arabs=enemies", "There is no room in the country for enemies" and "When Jews are stabbed we aren't silent" scrawled in Hebrew with red paint nearby, photos published by Israeli media showed.

Police said their forces "continue to search the area for the suspects who fled the scene."

A local official told public broadcaster Kann that footage revealed the vandalism took place overnight under the cover of the rain, and that the perpetrators were religious Jews.

The incident bore the hallmark of a "price tag" attack, a euphemism for Jewish nationalist-motivated hate crimes that generally target Palestinian or Arab Israeli property in revenge for nationalistic attacks against Israelis.

"Three masked settlers sneaked into the neighbourhood early and damaged the tyres of cars on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-president-mahmoud-abbas-points-finger-at-netanyahu-trump-administration-at-unga-252447">main street</a>," said Maysa Abu Khdair, a resident whose car was targeted and whose surveillance cameras caught the scene.

"My daughter went on foot to school in the rain," she added.

More than 160 cars were vandalised in a Palestinian neighbourhood of Jerusalem with anti-Arab slogans scrawled nearby, Israeli police said Monday, in a suspected hate crime.

More than 160 cars were vandalised in a Palestinian neighbourhood of Jerusalem with anti-Arab slogans scrawled nearby, Israeli police said Monday, in a suspected hate crime. The cars in the Shuafaat neighbourhood of east Jerusalem had their tyres slashed, with slogans such as "Arabs=enemies", "There is no room in the country for enemies" and "When Jews are stabbed we aren't silent" scrawled in Hebrew with red paint nearby, photos published by Israeli media showed. Police said their forces "continue to search the area for the suspects who fled the scene." A local official told public broadcaster Kann that footage revealed the vandalism took place overnight under the cover of the rain, and that the perpetrators were religious Jews. The incident bore the hallmark of a "price tag" attack, a euphemism for Jewish nationalist-motivated hate crimes that generally target Palestinian or Arab Israeli property in revenge for nationalistic attacks against Israelis. "Three masked settlers sneaked into the neighbourhood early and damaged the tyres of cars on the main street," said Maysa Abu Khdair, a resident whose car was targeted and whose surveillance cameras caught the scene. "My daughter went on foot to school in the rain," she added.

160 Palestinian cars vandalised in suspected hate crime: Police

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-in-gaza-after-rocket-attack-266911">Israel edged closer</a> to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline.

Right-winger Netanyahu and former army general Benny Gantz, who leads the centrist Blue and White alliance, traded blame over the impasse ahead of Wednesday, the last opportunity to form a coalition and avoid fresh polls.

A new election would be a repeat of September's deadlocked vote, which in itself was a response to inconclusive April polls, and would further deepen the political turmoil in the Jewish state.

"We made offer after offer and got nothing. Nada," Netanyahu said Sunday at a conference organised by a conservative Israeli newspaper. "Blue and White did not budge a millimetre."

The two parties have been discussing forming a unity coalition but Gantz has rejected serving under Netanyahu, pointing to his indictment&nbsp;on a string of corruption charges.

"People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz told the same conference. "The support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind."

Following the inconclusive elections in September, both Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day periods to try and negotiate a workable coalition in Israel's proportional political system.

Neither was able to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament.

Down to the wire

President Reuven Rivlin then turned to parliament in the hope of avoiding an unpopular election.

But the 21-day period he granted parliament to find a suitable candidate expires at 11:59 pm&nbsp;on Wednesday.

If <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-foreign-minister-says-he-hopes-jeremy-corbyn-loses-british-election-266430">nothing changes by then</a>, new polls will be called for, most likely to be held in March.

Theoretically, any member of parliament could try and gain the necessary support, but Netanyahu and Gantz remain the only realistic contenders.

A last-minute deal could still be reached with the help of a kingmaker in a political system where such battles often go down to the wire.

Avigdor Lieberman, whose secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party has eight seats and holds the balance of power, could decide to throw his support behind either bloc.

He has so far refused to back either, accusing Gantz of being reliant on the support of Israel's Arab minority and Netanyahu of being at the whim of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties.

He prefers a unity government, but weeks of talks have faltered.&nbsp;

Most Israeli media Monday reported little movement in the negotiations, setting the stage for new elections.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-netanyahu-agrees-for-party-election-264411/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Internal challenge

Netanyahu's political problems are intertwined with his legal woes,&nbsp;Israel's attorney general last month indicted him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

He strongly denies the allegations and accuses the country's&nbsp;media, police and prosecution of a witchhunt.

No date has yet been set for the beginning of the proceedings.

Under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-occupation-costs-palestinian-economy-25-bn-a-year-un-265772">Israeli law Netanyahu</a>, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment.

A new poll Monday by Israel's public broadcaster Kan found that Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White would again be deadlocked if elections were held today.

But if they do take place, Netanyahu might face yet another battle,&nbsp;this time over the leadership of Likud.

Gideon Saar, a&nbsp;rival within the party, has called for a primary vote before any new election, though no decision has been taken yet on the idea.

On Sunday, both Saar and Netanyahu spoke at a closed-door meeting of Likud's central committee attended by around 800 people.

According to sources within the meeting cited by the Israeli press, Saar received a warm welcome from his supporters but shouts of "traitor" from Netanyahu backers.

Saar later posted a video on his Facebook page of supporters chanting his name at the event.

"The attempts to delegitimize and besmirch those who seek to run (against Netanyahu) are against the Likud's democratic spirit," he told the crowd.&nbsp;

"A democratic competition strengthens the movement."

Israel edged closer to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline.

Israel edged closer to a third election within a year Monday as neither the embattled premier Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival appeared close to forming a government two days before a deadline. Right-winger Netanyahu and former army general Benny Gantz, who leads the centrist Blue and White alliance, traded blame over the impasse ahead of Wednesday, the last opportunity to form a coalition and avoid fresh polls. A new election would be a repeat of September's deadlocked vote, which in itself was a response to inconclusive April polls, and would further deepen the political turmoil in the Jewish state. "We made offer after offer and got nothing. Nada," Netanyahu said Sunday at a conference organised by a conservative Israeli newspaper. "Blue and White did not budge a millimetre." The two parties have been discussing forming a unity coalition but Gantz has rejected serving under Netanyahu, pointing to his indictment on a string of corruption charges. "People think that acts of corruption can be forgiven because of one political circumstance or another," Gantz told the same conference. "The support of the people who want to protect the prime minister causes them to be blind." Following the inconclusive elections in September, both Netanyahu and Gantz were given 28-day periods to try and negotiate a workable coalition in Israel's proportional political system. Neither was able to get the support of more than half of the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament. Down to the wire President Reuven Rivlin then turned to parliament in the hope of avoiding an unpopular election. But the 21-day period he granted parliament to find a suitable candidate expires at 11:59 pm on Wednesday. If nothing changes by then, new polls will be called for, most likely to be held in March. Theoretically, any member of parliament could try and gain the necessary support, but Netanyahu and Gantz remain the only realistic contenders. A last-minute deal could still be reached with the help of a kingmaker in a political system where such battles often go down to the wire. Avigdor Lieberman, whose secular nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party has eight seats and holds the balance of power, could decide to throw his support behind either bloc. He has so far refused to back either, accusing Gantz of being reliant on the support of Israel's Arab minority and Netanyahu of being at the whim of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties. He prefers a unity government, but weeks of talks have faltered. Most Israeli media Monday reported little movement in the negotiations, setting the stage for new elections. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees to party elections Internal challenge Netanyahu's political problems are intertwined with his legal woes, Israel's attorney general last month indicted him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He strongly denies the allegations and accuses the country's media, police and prosecution of a witchhunt. No date has yet been set for the beginning of the proceedings. Under Israeli law Netanyahu, the country's longest-serving prime minister can remain in office despite an indictment. A new poll Monday by Israel's public broadcaster Kan found that Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White would again be deadlocked if elections were held today. But if they do take place, Netanyahu might face yet another battle, this time over the leadership of Likud. Gideon Saar, a rival within the party, has called for a primary vote before any new election, though no decision has been taken yet on the idea. On Sunday, both Saar and Netanyahu spoke at a closed-door meeting of Likud's central committee attended by around 800 people. According to sources within the meeting cited by the Israeli press, Saar received a warm welcome from his supporters but shouts of "traitor" from Netanyahu backers. Saar later posted a video on his Facebook page of supporters chanting his name at the event. "The attempts to delegitimize and besmirch those who seek to run (against Netanyahu) are against the Likud's democratic spirit," he told the crowd. "A democratic competition strengthens the movement."

Deadlocked Israel faces repeat vote with deadline nearing

U.S. house rebukes Trump & Netanyahu. Democrats endorse a two-state solution.

U.S. house rebukes Trump & Netanyahu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../netanyahu-pushes-pompeo-for-more-pressure- on-iran-in-portugal-266280">Israel</a>'s foreign minister said on Thursday that he hopes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../terror-checks-intensify-as-london-attack-enters- election-fray-265626">Jeremy Corbyn</a> loses next week's British election, citing allegations of anti-Semitism buffeting the Labour Party leader.

With Israel in political disarray of its own after two inconclusive elections, the British contest has elicited few comments from Israeli leaders despite deep concern among British Jews over Corbyn and media reports that some might opt to emigrate if he wins.

Last week, Foreign Minister Israel Katz said the Israeli government had not discussed the prospect of Corbyn's election or the future of intelligence and security ties with Britain should the veteran pro-Palestinian campaigner become its leader.

But pressed on the issue in an Israeli Army Radio interview on Thursday, Katz was more forthcoming as the 12 December&nbsp;ballot approaches.

"I won't meddle in internal elections but I personally hope that he won't be elected, with this whole wave of anti-Semitism...I hope the other side wins," he said.

Labour Party spokesmen did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Katz played down the prospect that security relations with Britain, which include intelligence sharing over Islamist militant activity, would necessarily be degraded should Corbyn take office.

"Leaders don't harm their country's own interests so fast. But we will of course discuss these things if they occur," Katz said.

Corbyn has rejected allegations of anti-Semitism - last week Britain's chief rabbi accused him of failing to stem the "poison" gripping Labour - while holding to policies that rile Israel.

Last year, Corbyn said he would recognise a Palestinian state if elected. In a speech on Sunday, he pledged increased oversight of British arms exports to Israel in the name of not fuelling its conflict with the Palestinians.

On Tuesday, Corbyn made a direct apology for not doing enough to tackle anti-Semitism in his party.

"Obviously I'm very sorry for everything that has happened," he said. "But I want to make this clear, I am dealing with it, I have dealt with it."

Polls have shown Labour trailing Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party. And for now, Israel does not appear to be bracing for any influx of British Jewish immigrants.

Asked about this possibility, its Immigration Ministry said in a brief statement only that it "is prepared to take in immigrants from all over the world and welcomes immigration in any political situation".

The quasi-governmental Jewish Agency for Israel, which handles immigration requests abroad, said 507 British Jews moved to Israel between January and October, an 8 per cent&nbsp;rise compared with the same period in 2018.

Yigal Palmor, the agency's head of international relations, played down any sense that Corbyn's candidacy was a major spur for British Jews to leave.

"We have no solid findings to show an increase in British immigration (due to the elections). What we have are more general indications - more discussions of the option," he said.

Israel's foreign minister said on Thursday that he hopes Jeremy Corbyn loses next week's British election, citing allegations of anti-Semitism buffeting the Labour Party leader.

Israel's foreign minister said on Thursday that he hopes Jeremy Corbyn loses next week's British election, citing allegations of anti-Semitism buffeting the Labour Party leader. With Israel in political disarray of its own after two inconclusive elections, the British contest has elicited few comments from Israeli leaders despite deep concern among British Jews over Corbyn and media reports that some might opt to emigrate if he wins. Last week, Foreign Minister Israel Katz said the Israeli government had not discussed the prospect of Corbyn's election or the future of intelligence and security ties with Britain should the veteran pro-Palestinian campaigner become its leader. But pressed on the issue in an Israeli Army Radio interview on Thursday, Katz was more forthcoming as the 12 December ballot approaches. "I won't meddle in internal elections but I personally hope that he won't be elected, with this whole wave of anti-Semitism...I hope the other side wins," he said. Labour Party spokesmen did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Katz played down the prospect that security relations with Britain, which include intelligence sharing over Islamist militant activity, would necessarily be degraded should Corbyn take office. "Leaders don't harm their country's own interests so fast. But we will of course discuss these things if they occur," Katz said. Corbyn has rejected allegations of anti-Semitism - last week Britain's chief rabbi accused him of failing to stem the "poison" gripping Labour - while holding to policies that rile Israel. Last year, Corbyn said he would recognise a Palestinian state if elected. In a speech on Sunday, he pledged increased oversight of British arms exports to Israel in the name of not fuelling its conflict with the Palestinians. On Tuesday, Corbyn made a direct apology for not doing enough to tackle anti-Semitism in his party. "Obviously I'm very sorry for everything that has happened," he said. "But I want to make this clear, I am dealing with it, I have dealt with it." Polls have shown Labour trailing Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party. And for now, Israel does not appear to be bracing for any influx of British Jewish immigrants. Asked about this possibility, its Immigration Ministry said in a brief statement only that it "is prepared to take in immigrants from all over the world and welcomes immigration in any political situation". The quasi-governmental Jewish Agency for Israel, which handles immigration requests abroad, said 507 British Jews moved to Israel between January and October, an 8 per cent rise compared with the same period in 2018. Yigal Palmor, the agency's head of international relations, played down any sense that Corbyn's candidacy was a major spur for British Jews to leave. "We have no solid findings to show an increase in British immigration (due to the elections). What we have are more general indications - more discussions of the option," he said.

Israel's foreign minister says he hopes Jeremy Corbyn loses British election

According to a White House statement, United States President Donald Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday about Iran and various issues.

"The leaders discussed the threat from Iran, as well as other critical bilateral and regional issues," the White House said in an email statement.

Relations between Iran and the United States have worsened since last year when Trump pulled out of Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and reimposed sanctions on the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a White House statement, United States President Donald Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday about Iran and various issues.

According to a White House statement, United States President Donald Trump spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday about Iran and various issues. "The leaders discussed the threat from Iran, as well as other critical bilateral and regional issues," the White House said in an email statement. Relations between Iran and the United States have worsened since last year when Trump pulled out of Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and reimposed sanctions on the country. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Trump discusses Iran with Israeli PM Netanyahu

Your story of ''miracle'',&nbsp;"hope" and "immeasurable loss"&nbsp;continues to inspire many, were the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he penned an emotional letter to the Israeli boy who survived <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eleven-years-since-2611-tributes-pour-in-for-victims-of-terrorist-attack-in-mumbai-264517">26/11 Mumbai attacks</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/netanyahu-meets-moshe-at-chabad-house-calls-it-a-unique-blend-of-love-and-hatred-29966">Moshe Tzvi Holtzberg</a>, who turned 13 recently, was then a two-year-old baby&nbsp;when his parents were killed by terrorists from Pakistan in November 2008 in Mumbai. Holtzberg, who was crying seeing the dead bodies of his parents, was daringly rescued by his nanny Sandra Samuels, who was hiding in a room downstairs when the attack happened. The photograph of Sandra holding the two-year-old close to her chest post their rescue touched the hearts of millions across the globe.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack survivor, Moshe Holtzberg, on his bar mitzvah today. Letter states, "Your story continues to inspire everyone. It is one of miracle and hope overcoming tragedy &amp; immeasurable loss". (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/kIn6zHrwNH">pic.twitter.com/kIn6zHrwNH</a>
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"Your story continues to inspire everyone. It is one of miracle and hope overcoming tragedy and immeasurable loss", PM Modi wrote in the letter that was read by Sanjeev Singla, India's Ambassador to Israel.&nbsp;

“As you make this important transition and cross a significant landmark in the journey of your life, the courage of [nanny] Sandra [Samuel] and prayers of the people of India will continue to bless you for a long, healthy and successful life,” Modi said as he congratulated Holtzberg for his Bar Mitzvah yesterday.&nbsp;

Bar Mitzvah is a significant ceremony performed for Jewish boys when they turn 13 and some Israeli scholars relate it with upnayana or the thread ceremony. Holtzberg turned 13 according to the Gregorian calendar on November 28.

PM Modi also said that the terrorists failed to subdue their "vibrant diversity" and their "spirit" to move forward. "Today, India and Israel stand together even more determined against terrorism and hatred", PM Modi wrote.

The prime minister also remembered his visit to Israel in 2017 when he met Holtzberg and hoped that his wish of returning to Mumbai as the director of Chabad House comes true.&nbsp;

"I hope I will be able to visit Mumbai, and when I get older, live there. I will be the director of our Chabad House...I love you and your people in India," Holtzberg told PM Modi in 2017 during the later's visit.

Modi responded to Holtzberg by saying that he and his family members can come to India anytime they wish to and they will be issued long-time visas too.

Recently, India marked the 11th anniversary of the Mumbai attacks that were carried out on November 26, which killed at least 166 people and injured over 300.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Your story of ''miracle'', "hope" and "immeasurable loss" continues to inspire many, were the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he penned an emotional letter to the Israeli boy who survived 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

Your story of ''miracle'', "hope" and "immeasurable loss" continues to inspire many, were the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he penned an emotional letter to the Israeli boy who survived 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Moshe Tzvi Holtzberg, who turned 13 recently, was then a two-year-old baby when his parents were killed by terrorists from Pakistan in November 2008 in Mumbai. Holtzberg, who was crying seeing the dead bodies of his parents, was daringly rescued by his nanny Sandra Samuels, who was hiding in a room downstairs when the attack happened. The photograph of Sandra holding the two-year-old close to her chest post their rescue touched the hearts of millions across the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack survivor, Moshe Holtzberg, on his bar mitzvah today. Letter states, "Your story continues to inspire everyone. It is one of miracle and hope overcoming tragedy & immeasurable loss". (file pic) pic.twitter.com/kIn6zHrwNH — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2019 × "Your story continues to inspire everyone. It is one of miracle and hope overcoming tragedy and immeasurable loss", PM Modi wrote in the letter that was read by Sanjeev Singla, India's Ambassador to Israel. “As you make this important transition and cross a significant landmark in the journey of your life, the courage of [nanny] Sandra [Samuel] and prayers of the people of India will continue to bless you for a long, healthy and successful life,” Modi said as he congratulated Holtzberg for his Bar Mitzvah yesterday. Bar Mitzvah is a significant ceremony performed for Jewish boys when they turn 13 and some Israeli scholars relate it with upnayana or the thread ceremony. Holtzberg turned 13 according to the Gregorian calendar on November 28. PM Modi also said that the terrorists failed to subdue their "vibrant diversity" and their "spirit" to move forward. "Today, India and Israel stand together even more determined against terrorism and hatred", PM Modi wrote. The prime minister also remembered his visit to Israel in 2017 when he met Holtzberg and hoped that his wish of returning to Mumbai as the director of Chabad House comes true. "I hope I will be able to visit Mumbai, and when I get older, live there. I will be the director of our Chabad House...I love you and your people in India," Holtzberg told PM Modi in 2017 during the later's visit. Modi responded to Holtzberg by saying that he and his family members can come to India anytime they wish to and they will be issued long-time visas too. Recently, India marked the 11th anniversary of the Mumbai attacks that were carried out on November 26, which killed at least 166 people and injured over 300. (with inputs from agencies)

26/11 Mumbai attacks: PM Narendra Modi pens emotional letter to Israeli survivor Moshe

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-faces-palestinian-international-criticism-of-israel-settlement-move-263219">Israel's occupation </a>of the Palestinian territories has cost the economy of the Palestinians more than $2.5 billion a year for the past two decades, a UN report said Monday.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development report estimated the total fiscal loss to the Palestinian government between 2000 and 2017 at $47.7 billion.

The figure included $28 billion in accrued interest and $6.6 billion in leakage from Palestinian fiscal revenues.

It said the amount would have been enough to eliminate the Palestinian government's $17.7 billion budget deficit over the same period more than twice over.

The report argued if the $47 billion had been invested sensibly in the impoverished Palestinian economy, it would have created an extra two million jobs over the 18-year period, or 110,000 a year.

The report was presented at the Palestine Economic Policy Research Institute (MAS) in the West Bank city of Ramallah, home to the Palestinian government.

Misyef Jameel, senior researcher at MAS who worked on the report, said they only measured the direct fiscal impact.&nbsp;

The real figure for all loses was likely much higher, he said. 
&nbsp;

Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories has cost the economy of the Palestinians more than $2.5 billion a year for the past two decades, a UN report said Monday.

Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories has cost the economy of the Palestinians more than $2.5 billion a year for the past two decades, a UN report said Monday. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development report estimated the total fiscal loss to the Palestinian government between 2000 and 2017 at $47.7 billion. The figure included $28 billion in accrued interest and $6.6 billion in leakage from Palestinian fiscal revenues. It said the amount would have been enough to eliminate the Palestinian government's $17.7 billion budget deficit over the same period more than twice over. The report argued if the $47 billion had been invested sensibly in the impoverished Palestinian economy, it would have created an extra two million jobs over the 18-year period, or 110,000 a year. The report was presented at the Palestine Economic Policy Research Institute (MAS) in the West Bank city of Ramallah, home to the Palestinian government. Misyef Jameel, senior researcher at MAS who worked on the report, said they only measured the direct fiscal impact. The real figure for all loses was likely much higher, he said.

Israeli occupation costs Palestinian economy $2.5 bn a year: UN

Israel struck a series of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-rockets-israeli-airstrikes-jolt-tenuous-gaza-truce-262543">military targets in the Gaza Strip</a> overnight Wednesday in response to rockets fired from the Palestinian enclave, the Israeli army said.

"Fighter jets struck a number of Hamas terror targets in the southern Gaza Strip," an army statement said early Wednesday.

It said a weapons manufacturing site and underground infrastructure were among the sites targeted.

At least two Hamas sites were hit, in addition to one for allied group Islamic Jihad, a security source in Gaza said.

There were no immediate reports of any casualties.

Islamists Hamas control <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-carries-fresh-strikes-on-gaza-after-rocket-fire-army-262515">Gaza and Israel</a> holds the group responsible for any rockets launched from the strip, even if fired by smaller groups.

The strikes came in response to two rockets fired at Israel late Tuesday, one of which was intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-missile system, the army said.

The rockets caused sirens to sound around the Israeli town of Sderot, close to the border with Gaza.

The latest incident comes after a brief flare-up between Israel and the Islamist-ruled territory ended two weeks ago.

On November 12, Israeli fire killed a top Islamic Jihad commander in Gaza, sparking immediate retaliatory rocket fire from the group.

The Israeli military said around 450 rockets were fired at its territory in that episode and air defences intercepted dozens of them.

After two days of clashes which killed 34 Palestinians and no Israelis, a ceasefire began on November 14.

Israel struck a series of military targets in the Gaza Strip overnight Wednesday in response to rockets fired from the Palestinian enclave, the Israeli army said.

Israel struck a series of military targets in the Gaza Strip overnight Wednesday in response to rockets fired from the Palestinian enclave, the Israeli army said. "Fighter jets struck a number of Hamas terror targets in the southern Gaza Strip," an army statement said early Wednesday. It said a weapons manufacturing site and underground infrastructure were among the sites targeted. At least two Hamas sites were hit, in addition to one for allied group Islamic Jihad, a security source in Gaza said. There were no immediate reports of any casualties. Islamists Hamas control Gaza and Israel holds the group responsible for any rockets launched from the strip, even if fired by smaller groups. The strikes came in response to two rockets fired at Israel late Tuesday, one of which was intercepted by the Iron Dome anti-missile system, the army said. The rockets caused sirens to sound around the Israeli town of Sderot, close to the border with Gaza. The latest incident comes after a brief flare-up between Israel and the Islamist-ruled territory ended two weeks ago. On November 12, Israeli fire killed a top Islamic Jihad commander in Gaza, sparking immediate retaliatory rocket fire from the group. The Israeli military said around 450 rockets were fired at its territory in that episode and air defences intercepted dozens of them. After two days of clashes which killed 34 Palestinians and no Israelis, a ceasefire began on November 14.

Israel strikes military targets in overnight Gaza in response to rocket fire: Army

Prime Minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;can&nbsp;stay&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-deadlock-in-israel-benjamin-netanyahu-running-out-of-options-264457">on&nbsp;in his post</a> although he has been indicted&nbsp;on&nbsp;corruption charges, Israel's&nbsp;attorney&nbsp;general&nbsp;said Monday.

Avichai Mandelblit, in a statement, said,&nbsp;"there is no legal obligation for the prime minister to resign".

Under Israeli law, while ministers cannot keep their posts after the indictment, a prime minister is not legally required to step down unless convicted and with all appeals exhausted.

But the embattled premier has faced calls to resign from several politicians since Mandelblit last Thursday charged him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust.

Watch: Benjamin Netanyahu acts unperturbed by indictment

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/benjamin-netanyahu-acts-unperturbed-by-indictment-264254/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The&nbsp;indictment&nbsp;comes as Israel edges closer to its third&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-faces-court-party-challenges-after-indictment-264271">general&nbsp;election in a year</a>, after two inconclusive polls in April and September, with&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;and centrist rival Benny Gantz unable to form a government.

Gantz's Blue and White party won one more seat than&nbsp;Netanyahu's rightwing Likud in the September polls.

Parliament now has less than three weeks to find a candidate who can gain the support of more than half of the Knesset's 120 lawmakers, or a deeply unpopular third election will be called.

Netanyahu&nbsp;remains the country's interim premier.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can stay on in his post although he has been indicted on corruption charges, Israel's attorney general said Monday. Avichai Mandelblit, in a statement, said, "there is no legal obligation for the prime minister to resign".

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can stay on in his post although he has been indicted on corruption charges, Israel's attorney general said Monday. Avichai Mandelblit, in a statement, said, "there is no legal obligation for the prime minister to resign". Under Israeli law, while ministers cannot keep their posts after the indictment, a prime minister is not legally required to step down unless convicted and with all appeals exhausted. But the embattled premier has faced calls to resign from several politicians since Mandelblit last Thursday charged him with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Watch: Benjamin Netanyahu acts unperturbed by indictment The indictment comes as Israel edges closer to its third general election in a year, after two inconclusive polls in April and September, with Netanyahu and centrist rival Benny Gantz unable to form a government. Gantz's Blue and White party won one more seat than Netanyahu's rightwing Likud in the September polls. Parliament now has less than three weeks to find a candidate who can gain the support of more than half of the Knesset's 120 lawmakers, or a deeply unpopular third election will be called. Netanyahu remains the country's interim premier.

Netanyahu can stay on as Prime Minister despite indictment: Israel's Attorney General

Israeli PM likely to be challenged in the party election. PM Netanyahu indicted on graft charges and he refused to resign. Watch this video to know more.

Israeli PM Netanyahu agrees for party election

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

Benjamin Netanyahu acts unperturbed by indictment

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

Israel: PM Benjamin Netanyahu charged in multiple corruption cases

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Indicted On Corruption Charges.

Gravitas: End Of The Road For Netanyahu?

India & Israel Share Stronger Ties Than Ever Before In History Under PM Modi & Benjamin Netanyahu.

Gravitas: India-Israel Ties Under PM Modi & Netanyahu

A Brief Summary Of Netanyahu's Tenure As The Prime Minister Of Israel, So Far.

Gravitas: The Netanyahu Report Card

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

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-justice-ministry-indicts-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-for-fraud-breach-of-trust-and-corruption-263741">Israel's Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power.

The shock announcement compounded the political chaos gripping Israel, which has been without a government for months and faces the prospect of its third election in a year.

After&nbsp;months of suspense, Israel's longest-serving premier was charged by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit with&nbsp;bribery, fraud and breach of trust.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;immediately hit back in an often vitriolic 15-minute speech, accusing the judiciary, police and others of plotting against him with "false" and "politically motivated" allegations.

"What is going on here is an attempt to stage a coup against the prime minister," he charged in a televised address.

"The object of the investigations was to oust the right from the government."

He vowed to stay on as interim premier despite potential court dates and intense political pressure.

"I will continue to lead this country, according to the letter of the law," he said.

Political rival Benny Gantz, who had been trying to form a coalition government, said it was a "very sad" day for Israel to indict a leader, but called on&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;to "step down from his position and focus on the charges against him".

"There is no coup in Israel, but rather those that have barricaded themselves in power," he said.

Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-indicted-for-fraud-breach-of-trust-and-bribery-263754/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Hard and sad day'

The 70-year-old premier, nicknamed "Mr Security" and "King Bibi", has been in power since 2009 and dominates Israel's political scene.

The&nbsp;indictment&nbsp;comes with crunch talks due on forming a government,&nbsp;after&nbsp;two inconclusive general elections left the country's political system deadlocked.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;is not legally required to resign unless he is convicted and any subsequent appeals process is exhausted, but political pressure is likely to be intense.

He may now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-asks-parliament-to-find-new-pm-and-avoid-elections-263705">ask the parliament</a>, or Knesset, to grant him immunity from prosecution.

The charges against&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;range from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for positive coverage.

Mandelblit said it was a "hard and sad day" for Israel to indict a leader, but it showed no citizen was above the law.

"The citizens of Israel, all of us, and myself, look up to the elected officials, and first and foremost to the prime minister," Mandelblit said.

"Law enforcement is not a choice. It is not a matter of right or left. It's not a matter of politics."

On a day of high political drama, dozens of&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;supporters gathered outside his official residence, many holding pictures of the&nbsp;PM&nbsp;and slogans attacking Mandelblit.&nbsp;

"We are all&nbsp;Netanyahu," one sign read.

But on Twitter, many hailed the day's events, and "happy day" quickly became Israel's top trending phrase.

'Fight for political life'

A perennial fighter,&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;has outlived many political rivals. Hugh Lovatt, an Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said he wouldn't give up power easily.

"Now more than ever&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;will be fighting for his political and personal life," Lovatt said.

Of the three cases against&nbsp;Netanyahu, the third, known as Case 4,000, is seen as the most serious and carries&nbsp;bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges.

He is alleged to have negotiated with Shaul Elovitch, the controlling shareholder of&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;telecommunications giant Bezeq, to secure positive coverage on his Walla! news site in exchange for policies benefiting Bezeq.

Elovitch and his wife were also indicted.

Case 1,000 involves allegations&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;and his family received gifts including luxury cigars, champagne and jewellery from wealthy individuals, estimated to be worth more than 700,000 shekels ($200,000, 185,000 euros), in exchange for financial or personal favours.

Another, Case 2,000, concerns allegations&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;sought a deal with the owner of the Yediot Aharonot newspaper that would have seen it give him more favourable coverage.

Political turmoil

The next steps in the process remain unclear, with no trial date yet set.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-celebrate-palestinians-rail-against-us-settlement-move-263167">The developments</a> were set to only deepen the political turmoil in Israel, which has been without a stable majority government for much of the year.

Neither Likud leader&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;nor rival Gantz, head of the centrist Blue and White party, have been able to form a coalition government following deadlocked elections in April and September.

Netanyahu&nbsp;has remained interim prime minister.

The Knesset has 21 days remaining to find a candidate capable of commanding the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs, and the&nbsp;indictment&nbsp;is likely to strengthen former army chief Gantz's&nbsp;claims.

Gantz has reportedly tried to woo Likud MPs to join him in a broad national unity government, but so far there have been no takers.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on corruption charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday became the country's first prime minister to be indicted in office, on corruption charges, but defiantly condemned the "coup" against him and vowed to hold onto power. The shock announcement compounded the political chaos gripping Israel, which has been without a government for months and faces the prospect of its third election in a year. After months of suspense, Israel's longest-serving premier was charged by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Netanyahu immediately hit back in an often vitriolic 15-minute speech, accusing the judiciary, police and others of plotting against him with "false" and "politically motivated" allegations. "What is going on here is an attempt to stage a coup against the prime minister," he charged in a televised address. "The object of the investigations was to oust the right from the government." He vowed to stay on as interim premier despite potential court dates and intense political pressure. "I will continue to lead this country, according to the letter of the law," he said. Political rival Benny Gantz, who had been trying to form a coalition government, said it was a "very sad" day for Israel to indict a leader, but called on Netanyahu to "step down from his position and focus on the charges against him". "There is no coup in Israel, but rather those that have barricaded themselves in power," he said. Watch: Israeli PM Netanyahu indicted for fraud, breach of trust, and bribery 'Hard and sad day' The 70-year-old premier, nicknamed "Mr Security" and "King Bibi", has been in power since 2009 and dominates Israel's political scene. The indictment comes with crunch talks due on forming a government, after two inconclusive general elections left the country's political system deadlocked. Netanyahu is not legally required to resign unless he is convicted and any subsequent appeals process is exhausted, but political pressure is likely to be intense. He may now ask the parliament, or Knesset, to grant him immunity from prosecution. The charges against Netanyahu range from receiving gifts worth thousands of dollars to a deal to change regulatory frameworks in favour of a media group in exchange for positive coverage. Mandelblit said it was a "hard and sad day" for Israel to indict a leader, but it showed no citizen was above the law. "The citizens of Israel, all of us, and myself, look up to the elected officials, and first and foremost to the prime minister," Mandelblit said. "Law enforcement is not a choice. It is not a matter of right or left. It's not a matter of politics." On a day of high political drama, dozens of Netanyahu supporters gathered outside his official residence, many holding pictures of the PM and slogans attacking Mandelblit. "We are all Netanyahu," one sign read. But on Twitter, many hailed the day's events, and "happy day" quickly became Israel's top trending phrase. 'Fight for political life' A perennial fighter, Netanyahu has outlived many political rivals. Hugh Lovatt, an Israel-Palestine analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said he wouldn't give up power easily. "Now more than ever Netanyahu will be fighting for his political and personal life," Lovatt said. Of the three cases against Netanyahu, the third, known as Case 4,000, is seen as the most serious and carries bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. He is alleged to have negotiated with Shaul Elovitch, the controlling shareholder of Israeli telecommunications giant Bezeq, to secure positive coverage on his Walla! news site in exchange for policies benefiting Bezeq. Elovitch and his wife were also indicted. Case 1,000 involves allegations Netanyahu and his family received gifts including luxury cigars, champagne and jewellery from wealthy individuals, estimated to be worth more than 700,000 shekels ($200,000, 185,000 euros), in exchange for financial or personal favours. Another, Case 2,000, concerns allegations Netanyahu sought a deal with the owner of the Yediot Aharonot newspaper that would have seen it give him more favourable coverage. Political turmoil The next steps in the process remain unclear, with no trial date yet set. The developments were set to only deepen the political turmoil in Israel, which has been without a stable majority government for much of the year. Neither Likud leader Netanyahu nor rival Gantz, head of the centrist Blue and White party, have been able to form a coalition government following deadlocked elections in April and September. Netanyahu has remained interim prime minister. The Knesset has 21 days remaining to find a candidate capable of commanding the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs, and the indictment is likely to strengthen former army chief Gantz's claims. Gantz has reportedly tried to woo Likud MPs to join him in a broad national unity government, but so far there have been no takers.

Israel's Netanyahu defies 'coup against him' amid corruption charges

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

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

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

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

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

WION Dispatch: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu indicted

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

Netanyahu decries 'Alleged Coup' against him after Corruption Charges

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

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

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

Benjamin Netanyahu faces graft indictment ruling at 1730 GMT: Ministry

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WION Dispatch: Gantz failed to form a coalition for govt in Israel

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