United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who is on a two-day visit to Israel addressed the Israel's Parliament. He pledged to fully fund security aid to Israel while he's the speaker. McCarthy is the second House Speaker to address Israel's Knesset.

US speaker McCarthy addresses Israel's Parliament, says 'assure security funding to Israel' | WION

As part of ongoing protests against the controversial judicial reforms&nbsp;proposed by the Benjamin Netanyahu government, demonstrations took place across Israel on Saturday night. With the Knesset set to reconvene for its summer session on Sunday, there may be another attempt to pass the legislation that would allegedly severely restrict the judiciary.

According to an estimate by the Israeli company Crowd Solutions, there were almost 200,000 people present at the major Tel Aviv rally. The company anticipated that an additional 30,000 people would come in Haifa, 18,000 in Kfar Saba, and 16,000 in Netanya. Numerous other cities across the nation also hosted rallies. Nationally, 430,000 participants were listed by the organisers.

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Protests are continuing for over four months now against the conservative coalition's proposals to reform the legal system which will put most judge appointments under government control, and reduce the High Court of Justice's monitoring authority.&nbsp;

The protests on Saturday&nbsp;entered the 17th week and saw both government supporters and opponents.&nbsp;

In their largest rally to date, supporters of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's hard-right government crammed the streets around the Knesset in Jerusalem on Thursday.

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The rally was intended to give the coalition public support for its initiatives in the face of strong opposition both domestically and internationally.

National Unity head Benny Gantz from opposition, said it was “unacceptable” that a justice minister “who is supposed to develop and strengthen the [judicial] system, attacks and incites against it.” “The fight is about the image of the country and not just about the legal reform. We will not let extremists from either side take control of the country,” Gants added in a speech during which members of the crowd shouted “no to talks.”

Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees

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On Sunday, the Knesset is expected to reconvene after a month.&nbsp;All phases of the parliamentary process for judicial overhaul are completed and the legislation is prepared to be enacted in the coming days, if the Knesset chooses.&nbsp; 
 
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As part of ongoing protests against the controversial judicial reforms proposed by the Benjamin Netanyahu government, demonstrations took place across Israel on Saturday night.

As part of ongoing protests against the controversial judicial reforms proposed by the Benjamin Netanyahu government, demonstrations took place across Israel on Saturday night. With the Knesset set to reconvene for its summer session on Sunday, there may be another attempt to pass the legislation that would allegedly severely restrict the judiciary. According to an estimate by the Israeli company Crowd Solutions, there were almost 200,000 people present at the major Tel Aviv rally. The company anticipated that an additional 30,000 people would come in Haifa, 18,000 in Kfar Saba, and 16,000 in Netanya. Numerous other cities across the nation also hosted rallies. Nationally, 430,000 participants were listed by the organisers. Also Read | Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks Protests are continuing for over four months now against the conservative coalition's proposals to reform the legal system which will put most judge appointments under government control, and reduce the High Court of Justice's monitoring authority. The protests on Saturday entered the 17th week and saw both government supporters and opponents. In their largest rally to date, supporters of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's hard-right government crammed the streets around the Knesset in Jerusalem on Thursday. Also Read | 'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year The rally was intended to give the coalition public support for its initiatives in the face of strong opposition both domestically and internationally. National Unity head Benny Gantz from opposition, said it was “unacceptable” that a justice minister “who is supposed to develop and strengthen the [judicial] system, attacks and incites against it.” “The fight is about the image of the country and not just about the legal reform. We will not let extremists from either side take control of the country,” Gants added in a speech during which members of the crowd shouted “no to talks.” Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees × On Sunday, the Knesset is expected to reconvene after a month. All phases of the parliamentary process for judicial overhaul are completed and the legislation is prepared to be enacted in the coming days, if the Knesset chooses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Masses swell on streets in Israel over judicial reforms as Knesset reconvenes

Israel is in the midst of what can only be described as a major political crisis after&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition government proposed an overhaul of the country's judiciary, earlier this year. Since then, Israel has&nbsp;witnessed mass protests with tens of thousands of people taking to the streets in major cities across the country&nbsp;opposing the plan week after week.&nbsp;

Demonstrations continued on Monday (March 27), a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant which overnight plunged the ruling coalition into chaos as the PM&nbsp;faced mounting pressure to halt, freeze, or shelve his judicial overhaul plan.&nbsp;

The Israeli parliament, Knesset’s Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee was supposed to open early Monday for final voting of the judicial overhaul bill. 
 
However, in a statement, late Monday, Netanyahu&nbsp;delayed the process for discussions on the judicial overhaul&nbsp;to next month and said that the&nbsp;legislation would be pushed to the next session of the Israeli parliament in order to "pass the reform through dialogue."

What is happening in Israel?

Tel Aviv and Jerusalem plunged into chaos after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant where overnight&nbsp;spontaneous protests broke&nbsp;and people blocked roads. The situation worsened&nbsp;for the government, on Monday&nbsp;when&nbsp;thousands of Israelis demonstrated outside the Knesset in Jerusalem. Additionally, major organisations called for a strike action in solidarity which&nbsp;effectively brought the entire country’s services to a grinding halt.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;‘Historic’ strikes leave Israel at standstill with crowds in streets to protest judicial reform

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Workers from a range of sectors in Israel launched a nationwide strike including the country’s largest trade union declared a "general strike". Subsequently, other organisations followed the suit,&nbsp;stopping&nbsp;flights from Israel’s Ben-Gurion Airport, healthcare, stores, etc. Histadrut, the national labour union also instructed all government employees to stage a walkout, in line with which diplomats from across the world walked off the job at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-embassies-across-the-world-closed-until-until-further-notice-heres-why-576370">foreign missions.</a>

From protest to pause: What is this plan all about?

Earlier this year, in January, the country’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled a plan which would overhaul Israel’s judicial system. Since then opponents and critics have repeatedly said that it would threaten the democracy and freedom of Israel. Notably, Israel has no written constitution and is governed by the country's Basic Laws and has “evolved a system of basic laws and rights, which enjoy (the) semi-constitutional status,” says the Knesset website. &nbsp;

The long-promised overhaul of the judicial system is supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Furthermore, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, which in this case would be Netanyahu’s Likud party, which also holds a majority in the Knesset.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/netanyahu-fires-israeli-defence-minister-after-his-speech-called-for-halt-on-govts-proposed-legal-plan-576019">Israel: Netanyahu fires defence minister after speech calling to halt govt's proposed legal plan</a> 
 
The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it&nbsp;is the Override Clause that garnered controversy as it&nbsp;would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court.&nbsp;

Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government.

This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel.&nbsp;

Ouster of Israeli defence minister

Netanyahu fired Gallant a day after his speech called on the government to stop the proposed judicial overhaul and hold talks with its opponents. In a brief statement, the PM's office said that Gallant will be transferred from his post. However, there was no clarity on the new position he will be given.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-group-asks-court-to-punish-netanyahu-over-proposed-legal-plan-pm-given-a-week-to-respond-575914">Israeli group asks court to punish Netanyahu over proposed legal plan; PM given a week to respond</a> 
 
In a brief televised speech, on Saturday, the Israeli defence minister said, “Israel’s security is my life’s goal. Even now, I am willing to take a risk and pay a price. The threats around us are immense, near and far.” He also spoke about how he was “worried” about the conversations surrounding the proposed judicial reforms and that he had "never encountered the intensity of anger and pain".&nbsp;

Following his ouster, protest leaders announced a spontaneous rally outside the military’s headquarters in Tel Aviv in response to Netanyahu's decision.&nbsp;According to local media reports, over 100,000 people gathered outside the Knesset, on Monday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-meets-sunak-at-downing-street-amid-protests-uk-pm-stresses-democratic-values-575412">Israel’s Netanyahu meets Sunak at Downing Street amid protests; UK PM stresses on ‘democratic values’</a> 
 
Earlier today, Israeli PM in his first public statement since widespread demonstrations erupted last night. Netanyahu took to Twitter and called on all protesters in Jerusalem to “show responsibility and not act violently.” This came&nbsp;amid fears of violent clashes erupting between opponents and supporters of the government’s judicial overhaul this evening in Jerusalem.&nbsp; 
 
Netanyahu under pressure

There has been mounting pressure on the Israeli PM who is stuck between tens of thousands of protesters, members of the opposition coalition, leaders of foreign countries, and listening to his party Likud’s MKs who have pushed for the judicial overhaul.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-protests-live-president-isaac-herzog-calls-for-immediate-halt-to-judicial-reform-576092">Israel protests | As it happened: At least 80,000 protesters gather outside parliament; Netanyahu urges protesters to avoid violence</a>

Last week, Netanyahu&nbsp;visited the United Kingdom&nbsp;and met his British counterpart&nbsp;PM Rishi Sunak at No. 10 Downing Street, as hundreds gathered outside. During the meeting, Sunak stressed the importance of “upholding democratic values”, said the UK PM’s spokesperson.&nbsp;

“The prime minister stressed the importance of upholding the democratic values that underpin our relationship, including in the proposed judicial reforms in Israel,” Sunak had said. Additionally, US National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson, late Sunday, said that Washington is “deeply concerned” about developments out of Israel and highlighted the “urgent need for compromise”.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-judicial-overhaul-legislation-to-be-put-on-hold-until-next-knesset-session-576348">Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session</a> 
 
On Monday, Netanyahu’s coalition government also survived a no-confidence motion which was tabled by the opposition which has been protesting against the judicial overhaul plan. The motion failed by a vote of 59-53. Hours later, justice minister Levin said that he will “respect” PM Netanyahu's decision on how to proceed with the proposed overhaul plan, reported Times of Israel.

However, he also warned how stopping it now may lead to the immediate "collapse of Likud", Netanyahu's right-wing ruling coalition. “We must all make an effort to stabilise the government and the coalition,”&nbsp;said Levin. Similarly, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that the overhaul plan should not stop under any circumstances.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Israel is in the midst of what can only be described as a major political crisis after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition government proposed an overhaul of the country's judiciary, earlier this year.

Israel is in the midst of what can only be described as a major political crisis after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition government proposed an overhaul of the country's judiciary, earlier this year. Since then, Israel has witnessed mass protests with tens of thousands of people taking to the streets in major cities across the country opposing the plan week after week. Demonstrations continued on Monday (March 27), a day after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant which overnight plunged the ruling coalition into chaos as the PM faced mounting pressure to halt, freeze, or shelve his judicial overhaul plan. The Israeli parliament, Knesset’s Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee was supposed to open early Monday for final voting of the judicial overhaul bill. However, in a statement, late Monday, Netanyahu delayed the process for discussions on the judicial overhaul to next month and said that the legislation would be pushed to the next session of the Israeli parliament in order to "pass the reform through dialogue." What is happening in Israel? Tel Aviv and Jerusalem plunged into chaos after Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant where overnight spontaneous protests broke and people blocked roads. The situation worsened for the government, on Monday when thousands of Israelis demonstrated outside the Knesset in Jerusalem. Additionally, major organisations called for a strike action in solidarity which effectively brought the entire country’s services to a grinding halt. ALSO WATCH | ‘Historic’ strikes leave Israel at standstill with crowds in streets to protest judicial reform Workers from a range of sectors in Israel launched a nationwide strike including the country’s largest trade union declared a "general strike". Subsequently, other organisations followed the suit, stopping flights from Israel’s Ben-Gurion Airport, healthcare, stores, etc. Histadrut, the national labour union also instructed all government employees to stage a walkout, in line with which diplomats from across the world walked off the job at foreign missions. From protest to pause: What is this plan all about? Earlier this year, in January, the country’s Justice Minister Yariv Levin unveiled a plan which would overhaul Israel’s judicial system. Since then opponents and critics have repeatedly said that it would threaten the democracy and freedom of Israel. Notably, Israel has no written constitution and is governed by the country's Basic Laws and has “evolved a system of basic laws and rights, which enjoy (the) semi-constitutional status,” says the Knesset website. The long-promised overhaul of the judicial system is supposedly directed toward weakening the Israeli Supreme court. Furthermore, critics have said that it will affect the checks and balances as well as undermine democratic institutions by giving absolute power to the ruling party coalition, which in this case would be Netanyahu’s Likud party, which also holds a majority in the Knesset. ALSO READ | Israel: Netanyahu fires defence minister after speech calling to halt govt's proposed legal plan The legal reforms would also limit the power and authority of the High Court of Justice to block legislation or government decisions which would otherwise be deemed discriminatory or undemocratic. However, it is the Override Clause that garnered controversy as it would simply allow a majority of the Members of Knesset (MK) to overrule decisions by the High Court. Additionally, the government will also gain control over the selection process of judges and reportedly eliminate ministry legal advisers who are appointed by and report to the attorney general into political appointments controlled entirely by the government. This makes the Supreme Court the only institution to limit the government’s power and by challenging legislation passed by a parliamentary majority, the proposed reform would remove this roadblock for the Netanyahu government. Notably, the court cannot arbitrarily dismiss legislation passed by the parliament unless they hinder one of the Basic Laws of Israel. Ouster of Israeli defence minister Netanyahu fired Gallant a day after his speech called on the government to stop the proposed judicial overhaul and hold talks with its opponents. In a brief statement, the PM's office said that Gallant will be transferred from his post. However, there was no clarity on the new position he will be given. ALSO READ | Israeli group asks court to punish Netanyahu over proposed legal plan; PM given a week to respond In a brief televised speech, on Saturday, the Israeli defence minister said, “Israel’s security is my life’s goal. Even now, I am willing to take a risk and pay a price. The threats around us are immense, near and far.” He also spoke about how he was “worried” about the conversations surrounding the proposed judicial reforms and that he had "never encountered the intensity of anger and pain". Following his ouster, protest leaders announced a spontaneous rally outside the military’s headquarters in Tel Aviv in response to Netanyahu's decision. According to local media reports, over 100,000 people gathered outside the Knesset, on Monday. ALSO READ | Israel’s Netanyahu meets Sunak at Downing Street amid protests; UK PM stresses on ‘democratic values’ Earlier today, Israeli PM in his first public statement since widespread demonstrations erupted last night. Netanyahu took to Twitter and called on all protesters in Jerusalem to “show responsibility and not act violently.” This came amid fears of violent clashes erupting between opponents and supporters of the government’s judicial overhaul this evening in Jerusalem. Netanyahu under pressure There has been mounting pressure on the Israeli PM who is stuck between tens of thousands of protesters, members of the opposition coalition, leaders of foreign countries, and listening to his party Likud’s MKs who have pushed for the judicial overhaul. ALSO READ | Israel protests | As it happened: At least 80,000 protesters gather outside parliament; Netanyahu urges protesters to avoid violence Last week, Netanyahu visited the United Kingdom and met his British counterpart PM Rishi Sunak at No. 10 Downing Street, as hundreds gathered outside. During the meeting, Sunak stressed the importance of “upholding democratic values”, said the UK PM’s spokesperson. “The prime minister stressed the importance of upholding the democratic values that underpin our relationship, including in the proposed judicial reforms in Israel,” Sunak had said. Additionally, US National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson, late Sunday, said that Washington is “deeply concerned” about developments out of Israel and highlighted the “urgent need for compromise”. ALSO READ | Israel's judicial overhaul legislation to be put on hold until next Knesset session On Monday, Netanyahu’s coalition government also survived a no-confidence motion which was tabled by the opposition which has been protesting against the judicial overhaul plan. The motion failed by a vote of 59-53. Hours later, justice minister Levin said that he will “respect” PM Netanyahu's decision on how to proceed with the proposed overhaul plan, reported Times of Israel. However, he also warned how stopping it now may lead to the immediate "collapse of Likud", Netanyahu's right-wing ruling coalition. “We must all make an effort to stabilise the government and the coalition,” said Levin. Similarly, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that the overhaul plan should not stop under any circumstances. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Israel: Netanyahu agrees to pause proposed judicial overhaul for now. Here's what happened

After weeks of massive protests against Israel’s judicial overhaul plans, the contentious legislation is now agreed upon to be put on hold until the next session of the Knesset, media reports said Monday evening.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a state televised address made the announcement for the same.&nbsp;"Out of a sense of national responsibility, out of a will to prevent a rupture among our people, I have decided to pause the second and third readings of the bill," he said.&nbsp;

Following this, Israel's top trade union chief Arnon Bar-David called off strikes.&nbsp;"Following the prime minister's announcement I declare the end of the strike," Bar-David, chairman of the Histadrut trade union confederation, said in a statement.

“I agreed to remove the veto to reject the legislation in exchange for a commitment by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the legislation would be submitted to the Knesset for approval in the next session,” Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said in a statement, as per reports.&nbsp;

This comes after Israel fired Yoav Gallant, the defence minister, for refusing to side with the government's plans to overhaul the judicial system. That had sparked further demonstrations in the country which has been witnessing incessant protests for weeks on now.&nbsp;

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While confirming the hold on the legislation, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s Jewish Power Party said in a statement that it will now be taken up after the Passover recess in April.&nbsp;Gvir said that the judicial reform legislation will still be put to a vote during the summer session of parliament.&nbsp;

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He added that he had "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's commitment that the legislation will be brought to the Knesset for approval in the next session if no agreements are reached during the recess.”&nbsp;

Watch | Ukraine's economy cratered by war, metal industry a pillar to boost it&nbsp;

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It should be noted that the Knesset’s summer sitting runs April 30 to July 30.&nbsp;

Critics of the proposed judicial overhaul argue that it would undermine the independence of the judiciary and politicize the appointment process, potentially leading to the appointment of judges who are more aligned with the government's political agenda.

The proposal has been met with widespread opposition from various groups, including the Israel Bar Association and opposition politicians. The controversy has sparked public protests and drawn international attention. 
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After weeks of massive protests against Israel’s judicial overhaul plans, the contentious legislation is now agreed upon to be put on hold until the next session of the Knesset, media reports said Monday evening.

After weeks of massive protests against Israel’s judicial overhaul plans, the contentious legislation is now agreed upon to be put on hold until the next session of the Knesset, media reports said Monday evening. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a state televised address made the announcement for the same. "Out of a sense of national responsibility, out of a will to prevent a rupture among our people, I have decided to pause the second and third readings of the bill," he said. Following this, Israel's top trade union chief Arnon Bar-David called off strikes. "Following the prime minister's announcement I declare the end of the strike," Bar-David, chairman of the Histadrut trade union confederation, said in a statement. “I agreed to remove the veto to reject the legislation in exchange for a commitment by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the legislation would be submitted to the Knesset for approval in the next session,” Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said in a statement, as per reports. This comes after Israel fired Yoav Gallant, the defence minister, for refusing to side with the government's plans to overhaul the judicial system. That had sparked further demonstrations in the country which has been witnessing incessant protests for weeks on now. Also Read | At least 6 killed, several injured in blast near Afghanistan foreign ministry While confirming the hold on the legislation, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s Jewish Power Party said in a statement that it will now be taken up after the Passover recess in April. Gvir said that the judicial reform legislation will still be put to a vote during the summer session of parliament. Also Read | Myanmar's junta chief pledges to root out shadow govt before elections He added that he had "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's commitment that the legislation will be brought to the Knesset for approval in the next session if no agreements are reached during the recess.” Watch | Ukraine's economy cratered by war, metal industry a pillar to boost it × It should be noted that the Knesset’s summer sitting runs April 30 to July 30. Critics of the proposed judicial overhaul argue that it would undermine the independence of the judiciary and politicize the appointment process, potentially leading to the appointment of judges who are more aligned with the government's political agenda. The proposal has been met with widespread opposition from various groups, including the Israel Bar Association and opposition politicians. The controversy has sparked public protests and drawn international attention. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli trade union Histadrut ends strikes after Netanyahu pauses judicial overhaul legislation

An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place.

The bill, which seeks to amend the Basic Law, would reportedly cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review these laws. Though approved by the committee, the bills are yet to go through three readings at the Knesset before it gets to a final vote.

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Moreover, in a preliminary vote, Knesset on Wednesday approved a bill which will impose the death penalty on "terrorists" who kill Israeli people. The bill, which saw the backing of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led ruling Likud Party was approved by a vote of 55 to 9 in a preliminary reading, reported Israeli local media outlet, Times of Israel.

Among the other lawmakers who supported the bill was the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party. The bill, which is yet to become a law, says that any individual who kills an Israeli citizen because of “racist motivations” or causes hostility towards the public "to harm the State of Israel and the revival of the Jewish people” will be given a death penalty.&nbsp;

A European diplomat condemned the bill calling it a "game-changer that would negatively impact relations."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary</a>

Many Knesset members debated over the bill and lent their support. Speaking during the Knesset plenum, Israeli politician MK Limor Son Har Melech of the Otzma Yehudit party said that for many years an "absurd" situation has prevailed in the country where "despicable terrorists who murdered Jews" are imprisoned in an Israeli prison for a few years and are then released in a terrorist release deal or a plea bargain.

He emphasised that after the release deal, these "terrorists" walk free among general civilians as one of their own. The legislation as it gets preliminary approval from the Israeli Parliament is already surrounded by controversy.&nbsp;The law would not apply to an Israeli who kills&nbsp;a Palestinian, the reports said.&nbsp;

However, according to some reports, Israeli PM&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party might delay the controversial law. This comes at a time when tensions have lately escalated between Israel and Palestine with Israeli forces carrying out raids at multiple regions in the occupied West Bank region.&nbsp;

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Days ago, Israel and Palestine in a joint statement agreed to stop the authorisation of illegal settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank for six months. However, this bill might throw a spanner in the efforts to de-escalate the tensions. Israel's Attorney general is also reportedly expected to oppose the bill.&nbsp;

Knesset also advanced a bill which was related to grounds for declaring the country's prime minister unfit for office. In a preliminary vote, Knesset gave a green check to the bill which stipulates that the cabinet or the parliament, with a 75% majority, can declare the premier unfit for office, only in case of mental or physical inability. The bill if approved to become law will make it hard to disqualify the prime minister.&nbsp;

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An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place.

An Israeli parliament committee on Wednesday approved key bills which restrict Supreme Court's power to expunge unconstitutional laws. The Israeli government has been receiving severe backlash over its attempt to overhaul the judicial system in place. The bill, which seeks to amend the Basic Law, would reportedly cement government control over judicial appointments and revoke the court’s ability to review these laws. Though approved by the committee, the bills are yet to go through three readings at the Knesset before it gets to a final vote. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council Moreover, in a preliminary vote, Knesset on Wednesday approved a bill which will impose the death penalty on "terrorists" who kill Israeli people. The bill, which saw the backing of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led ruling Likud Party was approved by a vote of 55 to 9 in a preliminary reading, reported Israeli local media outlet, Times of Israel. Among the other lawmakers who supported the bill was the opposition Yisrael Beiteinu party. The bill, which is yet to become a law, says that any individual who kills an Israeli citizen because of “racist motivations” or causes hostility towards the public "to harm the State of Israel and the revival of the Jewish people” will be given a death penalty. A European diplomat condemned the bill calling it a "game-changer that would negatively impact relations." Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary Many Knesset members debated over the bill and lent their support. Speaking during the Knesset plenum, Israeli politician MK Limor Son Har Melech of the Otzma Yehudit party said that for many years an "absurd" situation has prevailed in the country where "despicable terrorists who murdered Jews" are imprisoned in an Israeli prison for a few years and are then released in a terrorist release deal or a plea bargain. He emphasised that after the release deal, these "terrorists" walk free among general civilians as one of their own. The legislation as it gets preliminary approval from the Israeli Parliament is already surrounded by controversy. The law would not apply to an Israeli who kills a Palestinian, the reports said. However, according to some reports, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party might delay the controversial law. This comes at a time when tensions have lately escalated between Israel and Palestine with Israeli forces carrying out raids at multiple regions in the occupied West Bank region. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches Days ago, Israel and Palestine in a joint statement agreed to stop the authorisation of illegal settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank for six months. However, this bill might throw a spanner in the efforts to de-escalate the tensions. Israel's Attorney general is also reportedly expected to oppose the bill. Knesset also advanced a bill which was related to grounds for declaring the country's prime minister unfit for office. In a preliminary vote, Knesset gave a green check to the bill which stipulates that the cabinet or the parliament, with a 75% majority, can declare the premier unfit for office, only in case of mental or physical inability. The bill if approved to become law will make it hard to disqualify the prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Knesset committee approves judicial overhaul bills as protests continue in Jerusalem

According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary. Meanwhile, in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knesset Constitution Committee voted to send the first chapter of the proposal for the first reading which sparked chaos in the parliament. During the reading, several lawmakers were removed from the parliament to shouts of “shame, shame”, while others exchanged calls of “fascist” and “traitor”, as per Reuters, some were even seen crying inside the Knesset and singing protest folk songs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/explained-thousands-in-israel-protest-against-new-governments-proposed-legal-reforms-550442">Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms</a>

At the same time, thousands had gathered outside the parliament in protest while demonstrations were also witnessed across the country, as per media reports. The controversial proposed judicial reforms would give Netanyahu greater control over the country’s judiciary including the appointment of judges and weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across Israel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-launches-air-strikes-against-underground-hamas-rocket-factory-in-gaza-561298">Israel launches air strikes against underground Hamas rocket factory in Gaza</a>

In a rare intervention, Herzog in a televised speech, late Sunday, called for all sides to come to a consensus on the matter saying that these plans have left Israel on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse”. He added, “I feel - we all feel - that we are barely a moment away from a collision, and even from a violent collision.”

Meanwhile, the Israeli PM who is on trial for corruption charges but has since denied any wrongdoing, in a statement called on the heads of the opposition to “stop deliberately dragging the country into anarchy” and how most citizens do not want anarchy but want a “substantive discourse” and unity. A poll conducted by Israel's public broadcaster Kan, published on Sunday shows that only 28 per cent of Israelis support the judicial reform while 50 per cent have opposed it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israeli-pm-netanyahu-vows-action-against-palestinian-attackers-police-seal-jerusalem-attackers-home-561248">Israeli PM Netanyahu vows action against Palestinian attackers; police seal Jerusalem attacker’s home</a>

The critics of the proposal have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. However, it is not just the parliamentary opposition but Israel’s banks and the technology sector that have also warned about how these proposals can isolate the country internationally and affect economic prosperity.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary.

According to media reports, at least 70,000 Israelis protested outside the country’s parliament, the Knesset in Jerusalem, on Monday (February 13) while lawmakers inside traded insults over the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu government’s plan to overhaul the judiciary. Meanwhile, in a rare warning, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that the country was on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse” and urged all sides to come together. Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knesset Constitution Committee voted to send the first chapter of the proposal for the first reading which sparked chaos in the parliament. During the reading, several lawmakers were removed from the parliament to shouts of “shame, shame”, while others exchanged calls of “fascist” and “traitor”, as per Reuters, some were even seen crying inside the Knesset and singing protest folk songs. ALSO READ | Explained: Thousands protest in Israel against new government’s proposed legal reforms At the same time, thousands had gathered outside the parliament in protest while demonstrations were also witnessed across the country, as per media reports. The controversial proposed judicial reforms would give Netanyahu greater control over the country’s judiciary including the appointment of judges and weaken the Supreme Court. These proposed changes have also led to weeks of protest across Israel. ALSO READ | Israel launches air strikes against underground Hamas rocket factory in Gaza In a rare intervention, Herzog in a televised speech, late Sunday, called for all sides to come to a consensus on the matter saying that these plans have left Israel on the brink of “constitutional and social collapse”. He added, “I feel - we all feel - that we are barely a moment away from a collision, and even from a violent collision.” Meanwhile, the Israeli PM who is on trial for corruption charges but has since denied any wrongdoing, in a statement called on the heads of the opposition to “stop deliberately dragging the country into anarchy” and how most citizens do not want anarchy but want a “substantive discourse” and unity. A poll conducted by Israel's public broadcaster Kan, published on Sunday shows that only 28 per cent of Israelis support the judicial reform while 50 per cent have opposed it. ALSO READ | Israeli PM Netanyahu vows action against Palestinian attackers; police seal Jerusalem attacker’s home The critics of the proposal have warned that the plans risk undermining the democratic checks and balances as it weakens the judiciary while granting additional powers to the executive. However, it is not just the parliamentary opposition but Israel’s banks and the technology sector that have also warned about how these proposals can isolate the country internationally and affect economic prosperity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel: Protests outside parliament over proposed reforms; president warns of ‘constitutional collapse'

Thousands of Israelis protested outside parliament against the government's controversial judicial reform plan, which aims to give lawmakers substantially more control over the supreme court.

Israelis protest against proposed judicial reforms

Thousands of Israelis protested outside parliament against the government's controversial judicial reform plan. Watch this report to know more.

Thousands protest against proposed judicial reforms outside Israel's Knesset

Israeli government has submitted a bill to Knesset, which is aimed at restoring Shas party leader Aryeh Deri to his ministerial positions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week was forced to fire Deri after the High Court of Justice ruled that the recently convicted lawmaker could not serve as a cabinet minister.

Israel moves to restore Aryeh Deri as minister

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM&nbsp;as he heads the 37th government of Israel.&nbsp;

The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November.&nbsp;

Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with&nbsp;former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post.&nbsp;

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🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1608469523774181377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1608472133600182272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government.&nbsp;

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Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. <a href="https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2">https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2</a>
— ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelReform/status/1608390089968582658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said,&nbsp;"We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords."&nbsp;

He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time."&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

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Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members.

Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel on Thursday (December 29) after the parliament voted to approve his government with 63 voting in favour of the new government and 54 against it, out of the parliament's 120 members. It will be Netanyahu's sixth term as PM as he heads the 37th government of Israel. The 73-year-old has made a comeback in politics after forming his government with the support of allies, including the Religious Zionism and Jewish Power parties after elections in November. Eli Cohen, the former Israeli intelligence minister, became the foreign minister, with former minister Amir Ohana becoming the Knesset's speaker. Ohana is the first openly gay occupant of the post. 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × 🇮🇱🇮🇱🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/woeI4sOxBk — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2022 × During his speech, Netanyahu presented the agenda to the Knesset plenum and outlined the objectives for his coalition: 1) stopping Iran’s nuclear programme, 2) developing state infrastructure, and 3) restoring internal security and governance to Israel. Netanyahu also said that he will work to tackle the rising cost of living and improve education. Meanwhile, Israeli left-wing and centrist activists gathered in front of the Knesset to protest against Netanyahu's new government. Today, outside the Knesset, ahead of the swearing in of the new government: In the name of Judaism - we came to defend democracy. To raise a voice against radicalization and incitement, racism and exclusion. Our fight will not dissipate or despair. https://t.co/TXsiRFbnA2 — ReformJudaismIsrael (@IsraelReform) December 29, 2022 × In his farewell address as the PM, Yair Lapid said that he is passing on the change "with an unquiet heart". Mentioning the Abraham Accords, Lapid said, "We laid the foundations for Saudi joining the Abraham Accords." He added, "The secret details will be handed to the incoming prime minister. If the new government continues in the route we carved out, normalisation with the Saudis can be reached in a short time." United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Netanyahu seeks to expand it to Saudi Arabia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Benjamin Netanyahu sworn in as Israel's Prime Minister, heads country's most right-wing govt ever

Senior Likud members on Tuesday expressed their disappointment over the reduced roles they are expected to receive in the upcoming government and Knesset.

WION Dispatch: Likud members slam Netanyahu's handling of coalition talks

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to return as the Prime Minister of Israel. His right-wing coalition is the largest block in the Knesset after Tuesday's polls. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Netanyahu set to return

The voting for the fifth general election in less than four years began on Tuesday to determine the 25th Knesset.

People were seen lining up&nbsp;outiside the polling stations, which opened at 5 am (GMT).&nbsp;They have until 8 pm (GMT) to cast their ballot.

The latest election follows the collapse of the coalition government headed by Caretaker Prime Minister Yair Lapid, who was successful in ousting Benjamin <a name="_Hlk118194066">Netanyahu </a>last year.

Tuesday's vote is being held in the wake of soaring violence across Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

Several opinion polls prior to the Tuesday voting showed right-wing Likud Party head Netanyahu leading by a slender margin.

Polls by local channels have predicted the Netanyahu-led bloc to get 60 seats, one short of a majority in the 120-member Knesset.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel to hold fifth election in four years: It's Benjamin Netanyahu vs Yair Lapid

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All the surveys found Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s current coalition partners together garnering 56 seats, with the Arab-majority Hadash-Ta’al faction forecast to receive four mandates, reports AFP news agency.

A day prior to the voting, Lapid made one last pitch to sway the voters in his favour saying, that they will "continue” what they have “begun" and predicted, "We'll win these elections the only way we know -- by working harder than everyone else.”

On the other hand, Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption and breach of trust, while addressing party members recently said that only he was capable of keeping the country safe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-elections-final-tv-polls-indicate-that-the-netanyahu-bloc-is-one-seat-short-of-a-majority-529786">Israel elections: Final TV polls indicate that the Netanyahu bloc is one seat short of a majority</a>

"I ask you to go to all of your friends, all of your neighbours, all of your relatives, and tell them that nobody stays home," the 73-year-old known as Bibi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The voting for the fifth general election in less than four years began on Tuesday to determine the 25th Knesset. People were seen lining up outiside the polling stations, which opened at 5 am (GMT).

The voting for the fifth general election in less than four years began on Tuesday to determine the 25th Knesset. People were seen lining up outiside the polling stations, which opened at 5 am (GMT). They have until 8 pm (GMT) to cast their ballot. The latest election follows the collapse of the coalition government headed by Caretaker Prime Minister Yair Lapid, who was successful in ousting Benjamin Netanyahu last year. Tuesday's vote is being held in the wake of soaring violence across Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank. Several opinion polls prior to the Tuesday voting showed right-wing Likud Party head Netanyahu leading by a slender margin. Polls by local channels have predicted the Netanyahu-led bloc to get 60 seats, one short of a majority in the 120-member Knesset. Watch | Israel to hold fifth election in four years: It's Benjamin Netanyahu vs Yair Lapid All the surveys found Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s current coalition partners together garnering 56 seats, with the Arab-majority Hadash-Ta’al faction forecast to receive four mandates, reports AFP news agency. A day prior to the voting, Lapid made one last pitch to sway the voters in his favour saying, that they will "continue” what they have “begun" and predicted, "We'll win these elections the only way we know -- by working harder than everyone else.” On the other hand, Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption and breach of trust, while addressing party members recently said that only he was capable of keeping the country safe. Also read | Israel elections: Final TV polls indicate that the Netanyahu bloc is one seat short of a majority "I ask you to go to all of your friends, all of your neighbours, all of your relatives, and tell them that nobody stays home," the 73-year-old known as Bibi said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel election 2022: Voting begins as Benjamin Netanyahu and Yair Lapid vie for premiership

Israel's fifth election in less than four years is coming up, it has emerged that the country's political parties are in debt, they owe $47 million dollars to the parliament in unreturned election loans.

Israel: Parties owe Knesset over $47 million in loans

Israel's new PM Yair Lapid is all set to convene a cabinet meeting today. Lapid addressed the nation for the first time since becoming the PM.

PM Yair Lapid denounces violent discourse in Israel: 'Want peace with Palestinians'

Israel’s coalition government decided Monday to dissolve parliament and call a new election, the country’s fifth in three years. Foreign Minister Yair Lapid will take over from Bennett on an interim basis in an agreement they announced together.

Israeli govt dissolves 24th parliament, calls new elections

Along with the delays in the legislative process, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett announced he would not be running in the next election. Meanwhile, Bennett's coalition partner, Yair Lapid will lead the government during what is expected to be a bitter election battle with opposition leader and ex-premier Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel heads to November 1 election with Yair Lapid as caretaker PM

The final readings of the vote to disperse the Knesset and call new elections were rescheduled for Thursday morning. Along with the delays in the legislative process, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett announced he would not be running in the next election.

Israel elections: Knesset delays dissolution until Thursday

Israel has moved closer to its fifth election in less than four years. The lawmakers have given their final nod to dissolve the parliament, with a possible comeback by former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This marks end of Israel's 24th parliament.

Israel's Knesset set to dissolve: Bennett's eight-party coalition govt to end today

Lawmakers passed the first reading of a bill to dissolve Israel’s 24th Knesset on Tuesday. The final readings of the bill to dissolve parliament will take place on Wednesday midnight.

Israel: Final vote on bill to dissolve parliament set for midnight

In Israel, there is an unprecedented political crisis that is unraveling. The parliament is expected to dissolve this week. As per reports, Yair Lapid will take over as prime minister this week.

Israel's military intel backs Iran deal? Iran Nuclear talks set to resume

Lawmakers passed the first reading of a bill to dissolve Israel’s 24th Knesset on Tuesday. The final readings of the bill to dissolve parliament will be held by Wednesday.

Israeli Knesset passes first reading of dispersal bill, final vote set for Wednesday

Israel's coalition government led by Naftali Bennett has been dissolved. Yair Lapid is set to be interim Prime Minister of Israel. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is eyeing a comeback to power.

Israeli Knesset votes to dissolve: Yair Lapid to be interim Prime Minister

Israel is moving closer to a fifth election in almost four years after lawmakers gave an initial nod to dissolve parliament. The Knesset voted unanimously to dissolve in a preliminary reading, the dissolution bill is expected to be finalized next week.

Israeli Knesset votes to dissolve; coalition partners vows to block Netanyahu comeback

Israeli lawmakers granted initial approval on Wednesday (June 22) to proceed with the process of the fifth election in less than four years in the country after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said his eight-party coalition was no longer tenable. The lawmakers have given a nod to dissolve parliament.&nbsp;

The Israeli parliament voted unanimously for a snap election in a preliminary reading of a bill expected to be finalised next week. Notably, the government's bill still needs to pass a committee vote and three further votes in order to call an early election.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, 58, will take over from Bennett at the head of a caretaker government. As per Israeli media reports, new elections could be held in late October or early November in case final dissolution legislation is approved.&nbsp;

There is a strong possibility that former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is already dominating the campaign, might make a comeback.&nbsp;

However, as reported by the Times Of Israel, Bennett announced that he will vote against a bill barring a lawmaker charged with a serious crime from becoming prime minister.&nbsp;

It is understood that the bill is targeting Netanyahu, who is being tried on criminal charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, the report said.&nbsp;

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Israeli lawmakers granted initial approval on Wednesday (June 22) to proceed with the process of the fifth election in less than four years in the country after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said his eight-party coalition was no longer tenable.

Israeli lawmakers granted initial approval on Wednesday (June 22) to proceed with the process of the fifth election in less than four years in the country after Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said his eight-party coalition was no longer tenable. The lawmakers have given a nod to dissolve parliament. The Israeli parliament voted unanimously for a snap election in a preliminary reading of a bill expected to be finalised next week. Notably, the government's bill still needs to pass a committee vote and three further votes in order to call an early election. Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, 58, will take over from Bennett at the head of a caretaker government. As per Israeli media reports, new elections could be held in late October or early November in case final dissolution legislation is approved. There is a strong possibility that former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is already dominating the campaign, might make a comeback. However, as reported by the Times Of Israel, Bennett announced that he will vote against a bill barring a lawmaker charged with a serious crime from becoming prime minister. It is understood that the bill is targeting Netanyahu, who is being tried on criminal charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, the report said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli parliament votes to dissolve to give initial approval for early election

In Israel Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's coalition is fighting for survival after losing majority as the Knesset is reopening for the summer session today. Bennett's government is set to face a challenge from the opposition

Israel: Naftali Bennett's govt hangs in balance, two crucial bills in Knesset today

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 20) addressed Isreali parliament and urged the Jewish nation to abandon neutrality and support Ukraine which is being invaded by Russia.&nbsp;

Zelensky, who himself is Jewish, has already addressed legislatures of the US, the UK and Germany.&nbsp;

In remarks that at several points compared Russian aggression to the Holocaust, Zelensky said that "Ukraine made the choice to save Jews 80 years ago."&nbsp;

"Now it's time for Israel to make its choice."

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Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has walked a careful diplomatic line since Russia launched its invasion on February 24.

Stressing Israel's strong ties to Moscow and Kyiv, Bennett has sought to preserve delicate security cooperation with Russia, which has troops in Syria, across Israel's northern border.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-risk-of-attack-from-belarus-on-western-volyn-region-of-ukraine-says-presidential-office-464023">High risk of attack from Belarus on western Volyn region of Ukraine, says presidential office</a>

Bennett has held regular phone calls with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, including a three-hour meeting with Putin at the Kremlin on March 5.

While Ukrainian officials have voiced appreciation for Bennett's mediation efforts, Zelensky on Sunday implied that this too had proven to be a misstep.

"We can mediate between states but not between good and evil," the Ukrainian leader said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 20) addressed Isreali parliament and urged the Jewish nation to abandon neutrality and support Ukraine which is being invaded by Russia.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (March 20) addressed Isreali parliament and urged the Jewish nation to abandon neutrality and support Ukraine which is being invaded by Russia. Zelensky, who himself is Jewish, has already addressed legislatures of the US, the UK and Germany. In remarks that at several points compared Russian aggression to the Holocaust, Zelensky said that "Ukraine made the choice to save Jews 80 years ago." "Now it's time for Israel to make its choice." × Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has walked a careful diplomatic line since Russia launched its invasion on February 24. Stressing Israel's strong ties to Moscow and Kyiv, Bennett has sought to preserve delicate security cooperation with Russia, which has troops in Syria, across Israel's northern border. Also Read | High risk of attack from Belarus on western Volyn region of Ukraine, says presidential office Bennett has held regular phone calls with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, including a three-hour meeting with Putin at the Kremlin on March 5. While Ukrainian officials have voiced appreciation for Bennett's mediation efforts, Zelensky on Sunday implied that this too had proven to be a misstep. "We can mediate between states but not between good and evil," the Ukrainian leader said. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky addresses Israel parliament, compares Russian invasion to Holocaust

Israel's former prime minister Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;formally departed his&nbsp;official&nbsp;Jerusalem&nbsp;residence&nbsp;early on Sunday, nearly a&nbsp;month&nbsp;after&nbsp;he was ousted by his successor Naftali Bennett.

"A little&nbsp;after&nbsp;midnight the&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;family left the&nbsp;residence&nbsp;on Balfour [Street]," a spokesman for the family told journalists in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-netanyahu-era-ends-in-israel-what-to-expect-now-391616">Opinion: Netanyahu era ends in Israel, what to expect now?</a>

Moving trucks were spotted outside the&nbsp;residence&nbsp;and black Audi cars were filmed being towed from the property over the weekend.&nbsp;

The hawkish&nbsp;Netanyahu, who served as Israel's leader for 12 straight years following an earlier three-year term, stayed in&nbsp;office&nbsp;longer than any other prime minister in Israel's history.&nbsp;

He remained in&nbsp;office&nbsp;even as he went to trial on charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust. He denies the charges and says they are a left-wing plot against him.&nbsp;

He led Israel through four deeply divisive elections in less than two years before right-wing nationalist Bennett was sworn in on June 13 to head an ideologically disparate coalition, unseating him.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;did not vacate the prime ministerial&nbsp;residence.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-well-be-back-soon-says-netanyahu-vows-to-stay-in-politics-391256">Israel: 'We'll be back soon', says Netanyahu; vows to stay in politics</a>

Instead, he continued to host dignitaries including Nikki Haley, who served as US ambassador to the United Nations under former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

In late June,&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;and Bennett's offices announced a final date for the former premier to move out: Saturday, July 10.&nbsp;

Netanyahu&nbsp;left&nbsp;after&nbsp;midnight Sunday, slightly&nbsp;after&nbsp;the deadline he agreed to.&nbsp;

"Crime Minister", an organisation that has mounted weekly protests against&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;outside the&nbsp;residence&nbsp;for more than a year, mocked him on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-the-former-military-commando-who-led-israel-for-15-years-391287">Benjamin Netanyahu: The former military commando who led Israel for 15 years</a>

"The defendant and his family fled as the last of the thieves in the night," the group wrote on Facebook.&nbsp;

Bennett is to take over the prime minister's&nbsp;residence&nbsp;on Sunday.&nbsp;

Israel's former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally departed his official Jerusalem residence early on Sunday, nearly a month after he was ousted by his successor Naftali Bennett.

Israel's former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally departed his official Jerusalem residence early on Sunday, nearly a month after he was ousted by his successor Naftali Bennett. "A little after midnight the Netanyahu family left the residence on Balfour [Street]," a spokesman for the family told journalists in a statement. Also read | Opinion: Netanyahu era ends in Israel, what to expect now? Moving trucks were spotted outside the residence and black Audi cars were filmed being towed from the property over the weekend. The hawkish Netanyahu, who served as Israel's leader for 12 straight years following an earlier three-year term, stayed in office longer than any other prime minister in Israel's history. He remained in office even as he went to trial on charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust. He denies the charges and says they are a left-wing plot against him. He led Israel through four deeply divisive elections in less than two years before right-wing nationalist Bennett was sworn in on June 13 to head an ideologically disparate coalition, unseating him. However, Netanyahu did not vacate the prime ministerial residence. Also read | Israel: 'We'll be back soon', says Netanyahu; vows to stay in politics Instead, he continued to host dignitaries including Nikki Haley, who served as US ambassador to the United Nations under former President Donald Trump. In late June, Netanyahu and Bennett's offices announced a final date for the former premier to move out: Saturday, July 10. Netanyahu left after midnight Sunday, slightly after the deadline he agreed to. "Crime Minister", an organisation that has mounted weekly protests against Netanyahu outside the residence for more than a year, mocked him on Sunday. Also read | Benjamin Netanyahu: The former military commando who led Israel for 15 years "The defendant and his family fled as the last of the thieves in the night," the group wrote on Facebook. Bennett is to take over the prime minister's residence on Sunday.

Netanyahu leaves official residence a month after losing office

Curtain is finally drawn over the political uncertainty which had engulfed Israel for past several months. Four elections in the last two years remained inconclusive. Finally, the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) &nbsp;approved on 13th June the formation of government by a coalition of eight opposition parties which managed to cobble together the required numbers i.e. 61 in the 120 Members Knesset. Naftali Bennett has been sworn in as Prime Minister. Under the coalition agreement on the principle of rotation of the post of Prime Minister, Benett will hold this position for the first two years. &nbsp;

It is noteworthy that the coalition government is a conglomeration of minuscule, small as well as big political parties with extremely diverse political ideologies ranging from ultra-right to extreme left and in between centrists.

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For the first time, even an Arab group representing a segment of the Arab minority of Israel is now a part of the government in Israel, imparting religious and cultural diversity, besides political and ideological to the coalition.&nbsp;

In short, the coalition represents almost entire political spectrum of Israel. The situation fits into the proverbial saying: politics makes strange bedfellows. It also reminds of the political scenario in India in 1977 when the entire opposition came under the banner of Janata Party and achieved its sole objective of ousting then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, but fell under its own weight within a couple of years.&nbsp;

The coalition culture in Israel is a norm rather than exception. Yet the pertinent question is, will the new government be able to survive long enough? Will it be possible for the coalition to steer clear of its political and ideological differences and adhere to a common agreed plan of action?

On the presumption the new coalition government in Israel manages to stay in power for a while, it would be interesting to watch as to what positions will it be adopting on some of the key foreign policy issues, particularly the issues which have regional dimensions.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is strongly opposed to the idea of an independent State for Palestinians. Such an approach runs counter to the broad international consensus on the Two-State formula under which Palestine and Israel will both co-exist side by side as sovereign and independent States. Bennett is also said to be a hardliner on the issue of occupied territories. No tangible progress towards the resolution of decades-old Israel-Palestine conflict should thus be expected.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-naftali-bennett-israels-new-prime-minister-391258">Who is Naftali Bennett, Israel's new prime minister?</a>

Naftali Bennet is also opposed to the prospects of a renewed deal between P5+ and Iran over the latter's nuclear programme. Some continuity in Israel's staunch anti-Iran policy can thus be expected. On the other hand, the probability of a hardliner being elected as Iran’s next President at the June 18 elections is high and this could further complicate the matters. We can therefore expect the stalemate in Israel-Iran relations to continue unabated; it may even worsen.&nbsp;

Check out pics&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/israel-celebrates-naftali-bennetts-victory-beginning-of-a-new-era-391326#israel-rocks-391316">Israel celebrates Naftali Bennett's victory, beginning of a new era</a>

In recent years, at the initiative of Benjamin Netanyahu, supported by the former US President Donald Trump, there was notable progress in the normalisation of relations between Israel and Arab countries. Within a span of one year in 2020, Israel established diplomatic relations with as many as four Arab League countries namely UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. The possibility of Israel normalising its relations with Saudi Arabia was also being speculated. Will the new government in Israel continue the process to ease tension in the region is something that remains to be seen.&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu is out of power after an uninterrupted tenure of over a decade. Is this the end of his political career? Netanyahu’s Likud Party with 30 Seats is still the single largest party in Parliament but short of as many as 31 Seats to qualify to form a government on its own or in coalition with others. As a matter of fact, he was the first to be invited to form government after March 2021 elections but failed to put together enough numbers. More than the numbers, Netanyahu is undergoing a trial for charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Benjamin Netanyahu’s political career thus will depend much on the outcome of the judicial proceedings against him.

<img alt="Benjamin Netanyahu, Naftali Bennett" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eeaa6588-01f7-4412-b6db-1d6149c8be66" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9C342N.jpg" />

India’s relations with Israel have grown steadily, particularly in areas of defence and security, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992. PM Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2017 was a landmark event in more than one sense: it was the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel since the proclamation of the establishment of the State of Israel in May 1948. Being a standalone visit to Israel, it also signalled India’s decision to make a departure from the hyphenation in India’s policy towards Palestine and Israel. Much of the acceleration in bilateral relations in last five years is often attributed to interpersonal equations between PM Modi and PM Netanyahu.

Personalities do matter in international relations but at the end of the day national interests prevail. And the national interests of both Israel and &nbsp;India at the moment demand a continuity in relations guided by the desire for mutual benefits.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Curtain is finally drawn over the political uncertainty which had engulfed Israel for past several months. Four elections in the last two years remained inconclusive.

Curtain is finally drawn over the political uncertainty which had engulfed Israel for past several months. Four elections in the last two years remained inconclusive. Finally, the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) approved on 13th June the formation of government by a coalition of eight opposition parties which managed to cobble together the required numbers i.e. 61 in the 120 Members Knesset. Naftali Bennett has been sworn in as Prime Minister. Under the coalition agreement on the principle of rotation of the post of Prime Minister, Benett will hold this position for the first two years. It is noteworthy that the coalition government is a conglomeration of minuscule, small as well as big political parties with extremely diverse political ideologies ranging from ultra-right to extreme left and in between centrists. × For the first time, even an Arab group representing a segment of the Arab minority of Israel is now a part of the government in Israel, imparting religious and cultural diversity, besides political and ideological to the coalition. In short, the coalition represents almost entire political spectrum of Israel. The situation fits into the proverbial saying: politics makes strange bedfellows. It also reminds of the political scenario in India in 1977 when the entire opposition came under the banner of Janata Party and achieved its sole objective of ousting then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, but fell under its own weight within a couple of years. The coalition culture in Israel is a norm rather than exception. Yet the pertinent question is, will the new government be able to survive long enough? Will it be possible for the coalition to steer clear of its political and ideological differences and adhere to a common agreed plan of action? On the presumption the new coalition government in Israel manages to stay in power for a while, it would be interesting to watch as to what positions will it be adopting on some of the key foreign policy issues, particularly the issues which have regional dimensions. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is strongly opposed to the idea of an independent State for Palestinians. Such an approach runs counter to the broad international consensus on the Two-State formula under which Palestine and Israel will both co-exist side by side as sovereign and independent States. Bennett is also said to be a hardliner on the issue of occupied territories. No tangible progress towards the resolution of decades-old Israel-Palestine conflict should thus be expected. Also Read | Who is Naftali Bennett, Israel's new prime minister? Naftali Bennet is also opposed to the prospects of a renewed deal between P5+ and Iran over the latter's nuclear programme. Some continuity in Israel's staunch anti-Iran policy can thus be expected. On the other hand, the probability of a hardliner being elected as Iran’s next President at the June 18 elections is high and this could further complicate the matters. We can therefore expect the stalemate in Israel-Iran relations to continue unabated; it may even worsen. Check out pics | Israel celebrates Naftali Bennett's victory, beginning of a new era In recent years, at the initiative of Benjamin Netanyahu, supported by the former US President Donald Trump, there was notable progress in the normalisation of relations between Israel and Arab countries. Within a span of one year in 2020, Israel established diplomatic relations with as many as four Arab League countries namely UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. The possibility of Israel normalising its relations with Saudi Arabia was also being speculated. Will the new government in Israel continue the process to ease tension in the region is something that remains to be seen. Benjamin Netanyahu is out of power after an uninterrupted tenure of over a decade. Is this the end of his political career? Netanyahu’s Likud Party with 30 Seats is still the single largest party in Parliament but short of as many as 31 Seats to qualify to form a government on its own or in coalition with others. As a matter of fact, he was the first to be invited to form government after March 2021 elections but failed to put together enough numbers. More than the numbers, Netanyahu is undergoing a trial for charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Benjamin Netanyahu’s political career thus will depend much on the outcome of the judicial proceedings against him. India’s relations with Israel have grown steadily, particularly in areas of defence and security, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992. PM Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2017 was a landmark event in more than one sense: it was the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel since the proclamation of the establishment of the State of Israel in May 1948. Being a standalone visit to Israel, it also signalled India’s decision to make a departure from the hyphenation in India’s policy towards Palestine and Israel. Much of the acceleration in bilateral relations in last five years is often attributed to interpersonal equations between PM Modi and PM Netanyahu. Personalities do matter in international relations but at the end of the day national interests prevail. And the national interests of both Israel and India at the moment demand a continuity in relations guided by the desire for mutual benefits. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Netanyahu era ends in Israel, what to expect now?

Israel's opposition leader on Thursday moved closer to unseating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after reaching an agreement with a coalition of diverse political allies to form a new government.

But the fragile alliance, which would command a thin majority in parliament, was expected to be sworn in only in about 10-12 days, leaving slight room for Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving leader, to try to turn lawmakers against it.

About 35 minutes before a Wednesday midnight deadline, centrist politician Yair Lapid told President Reuven Rivlin in an email: "I am honoured to inform you that I have succeeded in forming a government."

Under the coalition pact, nationalist Naftali Bennett, 49, a former defence minister and a high-tech millionaire, would become prime minister and hand over the post to Lapid, 57, a former TV host and finance minister, in about two years.

The agreement capped a March 23 election in which neither Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and its allies nor their opponents won a majority in the legislature. It was Israel's fourth national ballot in two years.

The coalition comprises a patchwork of small and medium parties from across the political spectrum, including for the first time in Israel's history one that represents its 21% Arab minority - the United Arab List.

They have little in common other than a desire to oust Netanyahu, whose 12-year run as prime minister has been clouded by a trial on corruption charges that he denies. 
 
The lineup includes Bennett's Yamina (Rightward), centre-left Blue and White, headed by Defence Minister Benny Gantz, the left-wing Meretz and Labour parties, former defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party and New Hope, a right-wing party headed by former education minister Gideon Saar, who broke away from Likud.

Political analysts widely expected Netanyahu to try to pick off what one described as "low-hanging fruit", seizing upon Yamina members who are unhappy about joining forces with Arab and leftist lawmakers.

Tamar Zandberg, a Meretz legislator, acknowledged the difficulties in getting the alliance that her party joined off the ground.

"The coalition's test...is to be sworn in - that won't be without rough patches and problems," she said on Army Radio on Thursday.

Netanyahu, who has yet to respond to Lapid's announcement, controls 30 seats in the 120-member Knesset, almost twice as many as Lapid's Yesh Atid party, and he is allied with at least three other religious and nationalist parties.

STABILITY

A source involved in the coalition talks said the proposed new government would try to retain consensus by avoiding hot-button ideological issues such as whether to annex or cede occupied West Bank territory that Palestinians want for a state.

Bennet has said that the creation of an independent Palestine would be suicide for Israel. He made annexation of parts of the territory that Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war a major feature of his political platform but following through on that with the broad new coalition looked to be politically unfeasible.

But any new flare-up along Israel's volatile border with Gaza, nearly two weeks after a ceasefire ended 11 days of fighting with the Palestinian enclave's ruling Hamas group, could challenge the stability of the broad alliance.

During his tenure as prime minister, Netanyahu has been an often polarizing figure at home and abroad.

He has said a Bennett-Lapid coalition would endanger Israel's security - an allusion to efforts to curb Iran's nuclear programme and managing the Palestinian issue.

Lapid, a centrist who campaigned under a pledge to "return sanity" to Israel, was given the task of forming a government after Netanyahu failed to do so in the wake of the March election.

Netanyahu's rivals have cited the criminal charges against him as the main reason why Israel needs a new leader, arguing that he might use a new term to legislate immunity to shield himself.

"This government...will respect its opponents and do all it can to unites and connect all parts of Israeli society," Lapid said on Twitter.

The new government, if it is sworn in, will face considerable challenges. As well as Iran and the moribund peace process with the Palestinians, it also faces a war crimes probe by the International Criminal Court and economic recovery following the coronavirus pandemic.

Bennett has said its members would have to compromise on such ideological issues to get the country back on track, with government debt at 72.4% in 2020, up from 60% in 2019 and the deficit jumping to 11.6% in 2020 from 3.7% in 2019.

Israel's opposition leader on Thursday moved closer to unseating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after reaching an agreement with a coalition of diverse political allies to form a new government.

Israel's opposition leader on Thursday moved closer to unseating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after reaching an agreement with a coalition of diverse political allies to form a new government. But the fragile alliance, which would command a thin majority in parliament, was expected to be sworn in only in about 10-12 days, leaving slight room for Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving leader, to try to turn lawmakers against it. About 35 minutes before a Wednesday midnight deadline, centrist politician Yair Lapid told President Reuven Rivlin in an email: "I am honoured to inform you that I have succeeded in forming a government." Under the coalition pact, nationalist Naftali Bennett, 49, a former defence minister and a high-tech millionaire, would become prime minister and hand over the post to Lapid, 57, a former TV host and finance minister, in about two years. The agreement capped a March 23 election in which neither Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and its allies nor their opponents won a majority in the legislature. It was Israel's fourth national ballot in two years. The coalition comprises a patchwork of small and medium parties from across the political spectrum, including for the first time in Israel's history one that represents its 21% Arab minority - the United Arab List. They have little in common other than a desire to oust Netanyahu, whose 12-year run as prime minister has been clouded by a trial on corruption charges that he denies. The lineup includes Bennett's Yamina (Rightward), centre-left Blue and White, headed by Defence Minister Benny Gantz, the left-wing Meretz and Labour parties, former defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party and New Hope, a right-wing party headed by former education minister Gideon Saar, who broke away from Likud. Political analysts widely expected Netanyahu to try to pick off what one described as "low-hanging fruit", seizing upon Yamina members who are unhappy about joining forces with Arab and leftist lawmakers. Tamar Zandberg, a Meretz legislator, acknowledged the difficulties in getting the alliance that her party joined off the ground. "The coalition's test...is to be sworn in - that won't be without rough patches and problems," she said on Army Radio on Thursday. Netanyahu, who has yet to respond to Lapid's announcement, controls 30 seats in the 120-member Knesset, almost twice as many as Lapid's Yesh Atid party, and he is allied with at least three other religious and nationalist parties. STABILITY A source involved in the coalition talks said the proposed new government would try to retain consensus by avoiding hot-button ideological issues such as whether to annex or cede occupied West Bank territory that Palestinians want for a state. Bennet has said that the creation of an independent Palestine would be suicide for Israel. He made annexation of parts of the territory that Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war a major feature of his political platform but following through on that with the broad new coalition looked to be politically unfeasible. But any new flare-up along Israel's volatile border with Gaza, nearly two weeks after a ceasefire ended 11 days of fighting with the Palestinian enclave's ruling Hamas group, could challenge the stability of the broad alliance. During his tenure as prime minister, Netanyahu has been an often polarizing figure at home and abroad. He has said a Bennett-Lapid coalition would endanger Israel's security - an allusion to efforts to curb Iran's nuclear programme and managing the Palestinian issue. Lapid, a centrist who campaigned under a pledge to "return sanity" to Israel, was given the task of forming a government after Netanyahu failed to do so in the wake of the March election. Netanyahu's rivals have cited the criminal charges against him as the main reason why Israel needs a new leader, arguing that he might use a new term to legislate immunity to shield himself. "This government...will respect its opponents and do all it can to unites and connect all parts of Israeli society," Lapid said on Twitter. The new government, if it is sworn in, will face considerable challenges. As well as Iran and the moribund peace process with the Palestinians, it also faces a war crimes probe by the International Criminal Court and economic recovery following the coronavirus pandemic. Bennett has said its members would have to compromise on such ideological issues to get the country back on track, with government debt at 72.4% in 2020, up from 60% in 2019 and the deficit jumping to 11.6% in 2020 from 3.7% in 2019.

Israeli opposition announces new government, set to unseat Netanyahu

The Opposition politicians of Israel have until Wednesday midnight to finalise discussions to form a coalition government that would topple Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year rule.&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu has been the longest-serving Israeli prime minister of all time.But the two rivals of Netanyahu announced a partnership on Sunday that could remove Israel's longest-serving leader. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/race-to-knesset-israels-political-roller-coaster-since-its-last-election-388576#yair-lapid-naftali-bennett-388571">Pictures | Race to Knesset: Israel's political roller coaster since its last election</a> 
 
Yair Lapid, a centrist, and the far-right Naftali Bennett have teamed up and agreed to share the premiership, with Bennett taking the first turn, but they are still trying to put together a ruling coalition that includes parties from all sides of the political spectrum.&nbsp;

The opposition leader Yair Lapid's 28-day mandate to form a majority through forming alliances with political parties expires on June 2, according to Israeli election procedures. By this time, he should have informed the president he has succeeded.

Meanwhile, the vote for Israel’s next president has concluded and results are expected in the next hour.

If Lapid fails to meet the midnight deadline, Israel will conduct its fifth election in just over two years, giving Netanyahu yet another chance to keep his job while facing corruption charges.&nbsp;

The 71-year-old Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, is currently facing three corruption allegations, which he denies: fraud, bribery, and breach of trust.&nbsp;

Lapid needs a 61-seat majority in Israel's 120-seat Knesset, so losing one or two seats may put an end to his bid.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Opposition politicians of Israel have until Wednesday midnight to finalise discussions to form a coalition government that would topple Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year rule.

The Opposition politicians of Israel have until Wednesday midnight to finalise discussions to form a coalition government that would topple Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year rule. Benjamin Netanyahu has been the longest-serving Israeli prime minister of all time.But the two rivals of Netanyahu announced a partnership on Sunday that could remove Israel's longest-serving leader. Pictures | Race to Knesset: Israel's political roller coaster since its last election Yair Lapid, a centrist, and the far-right Naftali Bennett have teamed up and agreed to share the premiership, with Bennett taking the first turn, but they are still trying to put together a ruling coalition that includes parties from all sides of the political spectrum. The opposition leader Yair Lapid's 28-day mandate to form a majority through forming alliances with political parties expires on June 2, according to Israeli election procedures. By this time, he should have informed the president he has succeeded. Meanwhile, the vote for Israel’s next president has concluded and results are expected in the next hour. If Lapid fails to meet the midnight deadline, Israel will conduct its fifth election in just over two years, giving Netanyahu yet another chance to keep his job while facing corruption charges. The 71-year-old Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, is currently facing three corruption allegations, which he denies: fraud, bribery, and breach of trust. Lapid needs a 61-seat majority in Israel's 120-seat Knesset, so losing one or two seats may put an end to his bid. (With inputs from agencies)

Political crisis in Israel: Opposition parties face midnight deadline to form government

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