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

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

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

US President Trump discusses Iran with Israeli PM Netanyahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-faces-graft-indictment-ruling-at-1730-gmt-ministry-263731">indicted by the country's justice ministry</a> for bribery, corruption, fraud and breach of trust on Thursday.&nbsp;

Netanyahu faced a three-year-long probe in three cases. The judgement delivers a tight blow to Netanyahu just before possible polls.&nbsp;

Netanyahu now faces a trial in court and in case he gets convicted he will be barred from contesting polls and could also face a 10-year-long jail term.&nbsp;

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit announced the decision, the first of its kind against a serving Israeli prime minister, in a statement and said the charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud.

Police recommended in February that Mandelblit file criminal charges against the right-wing prime minister in the long-running investigations dubbed Cases 1000, 2000 and 4000.

Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing in the three corruption cases, saying he is a victim of a political witch-hunt.

He is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by an Israeli newspaper and a website, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

He could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum 3-year term for fraud and breach of trust.

An indictment against Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving leader, would raise more uncertainty over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-president-asks-parliament-to-find-new-pm-and-avoid-elections-263705">who will ultimately lead a country</a> mired in political chaos after two inconclusive elections this year.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted by the country's justice ministry for bribery, corruption, fraud and breach of trust on Thursday. Netanyahu faced a three-year-long probe in three cases.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted by the country's justice ministry for bribery, corruption, fraud and breach of trust on Thursday. Netanyahu faced a three-year-long probe in three cases. The judgement delivers a tight blow to Netanyahu just before possible polls. Netanyahu now faces a trial in court and in case he gets convicted he will be barred from contesting polls and could also face a 10-year-long jail term. Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit announced the decision, the first of its kind against a serving Israeli prime minister, in a statement and said the charges included bribery, breach of trust and fraud. Police recommended in February that Mandelblit file criminal charges against the right-wing prime minister in the long-running investigations dubbed Cases 1000, 2000 and 4000. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing in the three corruption cases, saying he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. He is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, from tycoons and of dispensing favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by an Israeli newspaper and a website, news agency Reuters reported. He could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of bribery and a maximum 3-year term for fraud and breach of trust. An indictment against Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving leader, would raise more uncertainty over who will ultimately lead a country mired in political chaos after two inconclusive elections this year. (With inputs from Reuters)

Israel's justice ministry indicts PM Benjamin Netanyahu for fraud, breach of trust and corruption

After Netanyahu, Gantz fails to form government in Israel. Lawmakers now have 21 days to nominate a candidate.

Gantz fails to form new Israeli government

Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu vows to annex Jordan valley a day after U.S. stance. Israeli Military occupies Jordan valley since 1967. Around 65,000 Palestinians live in the Jordan valley. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

WION Dispatch: Netanyahu's push to annex Jordan valley

U.S. policy shift a boost to Netanyahu. Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu vows to annex Jordan valley after U.S. stance. Israeli Military occupies Jordan valley since 1967. 65,000 Palestinians live in the Jordan valley. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

U.S. policy shift a boost to Netanyahu

The Palestinian health ministry said today two more people were killed after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-retaliates-as-200-rockets-fired-by-gaza-militant-10-people-killed-261693"> Israel launched airstrikes&nbsp;on Gaza </a>early on Wednesday morning.

Israel's strikes occurred after it killed a top Palestinian militant Baha<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-kills-islamic-jihads-top-commander-in-missile-attack-261537"> Abu Al-Atta in Gaza</a> belonging to Islamic Jihad early Tuesday leading to a tit-for-tat rocket attack by militants from across the border.

Israeli PM Netanyahu said Al-Atta was a "ticking bomb," responsible for cross-border rocket, drone and sniper attacks. Al-Atta, 42, and his wife were killed in the pre-dawn Israeli strike.

Watch Video:

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The death toll as a result of the strikes has now climbed to 12, several Israeli's were wounded after militants fired rockets, with some reaching Tel Aviv.

Israel carried out a series of strikes early on Wednesday as citizens ran for cover. &nbsp;Israeli military said Palestinian militants fired about 200 rockets into Israel throughout the day in retaliation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Israel is not interested in escalation, but we will do everything required to defend ourselves, adding,"this could take time."

Meanwhile, the US-backed the Israeli strikes in Gaza.

"Palestinian Islamic Jihad, an Islamist terrorist org backed by Iran, is again attacking Israel with 100’s of missiles aimed at civilians. We stand w(ith) our friend &amp; ally Israel," US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman said. 
&nbsp;

The Palestinian health ministry said today two more people were killed after Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza early on Wednesday morning. Israel's strikes occurred after it killed a top Palestinian militant Baha Abu Al-Atta in Gaza belonging to Islamic Jihad early Tuesday leading to a tit-for-tat rocket attack by militants from across the border.

The Palestinian health ministry said today two more people were killed after Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza early on Wednesday morning. Israel's strikes occurred after it killed a top Palestinian militant Baha Abu Al-Atta in Gaza belonging to Islamic Jihad early Tuesday leading to a tit-for-tat rocket attack by militants from across the border. Israeli PM Netanyahu said Al-Atta was a "ticking bomb," responsible for cross-border rocket, drone and sniper attacks. Al-Atta, 42, and his wife were killed in the pre-dawn Israeli strike. Watch Video: The death toll as a result of the strikes has now climbed to 12, several Israeli's were wounded after militants fired rockets, with some reaching Tel Aviv. Israel carried out a series of strikes early on Wednesday as citizens ran for cover. Israeli military said Palestinian militants fired about 200 rockets into Israel throughout the day in retaliation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Israel is not interested in escalation, but we will do everything required to defend ourselves, adding,"this could take time." Meanwhile, the US-backed the Israeli strikes in Gaza. "Palestinian Islamic Jihad, an Islamist terrorist org backed by Iran, is again attacking Israel with 100’s of missiles aimed at civilians. We stand w(ith) our friend & ally Israel," US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman said.

Death toll in Israeli strikes in Gaza climbs to 12

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday.

Naftali Bennett, who heads the New Right party, will take the defence portfolio from the right-wing Netanyahu, who has simultaneously served as premier and defence minister for nearly a year.

"The appointment will be brought to the government for approval at an upcoming government meeting," the Likud spokesman said in a statement.

Israeli politics is deadlocked after two inconclusive elections this year. Former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party emerged neck and neck with Netanyahu following a September vote, and both leaders have struggled to put together a ruling coalition.

Gantz, who was asked by Israel's president to forge a coalition after Netanyahu failed to do so, has less than two weeks left to form a government.

If he fails, the country could be headed towards an unprecedented third election although a smaller party might be given a chance before that.

Netanyahu has led a caretaker government throughout the political turmoil.

Bennett previously served in Netanyahu's cabinet as education minister. A former settler leader, he advocates tough action against Palestinian militants in Gaza and unusual tactics towards Israel's arch-foe Iran and its proxy Hezbollah.

Netanyahu took over the defence portfolio following the resignation of then-chief Avigdor Lieberman, who in stepping down in November 2018 helped plunge the country towards snap elections in April.

Netanyahu and Bennett also agreed to form a parliamentary alliance, the Likud spokesman said, adding that Bennett agreed another person would be appointed defence chief if a unity government or narrow right-wing coalition is formed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday. Naftali Bennett, who heads the New Right party, will take the defence portfolio from the right-wing Netanyahu, who has simultaneously served as premier and defence minister for nearly a year. "The appointment will be brought to the government for approval at an upcoming government meeting," the Likud spokesman said in a statement. Israeli politics is deadlocked after two inconclusive elections this year. Former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party emerged neck and neck with Netanyahu following a September vote, and both leaders have struggled to put together a ruling coalition. Gantz, who was asked by Israel's president to forge a coalition after Netanyahu failed to do so, has less than two weeks left to form a government. If he fails, the country could be headed towards an unprecedented third election although a smaller party might be given a chance before that. Netanyahu has led a caretaker government throughout the political turmoil. Bennett previously served in Netanyahu's cabinet as education minister. A former settler leader, he advocates tough action against Palestinian militants in Gaza and unusual tactics towards Israel's arch-foe Iran and its proxy Hezbollah. Netanyahu took over the defence portfolio following the resignation of then-chief Avigdor Lieberman, who in stepping down in November 2018 helped plunge the country towards snap elections in April. Netanyahu and Bennett also agreed to form a parliamentary alliance, the Likud spokesman said, adding that Bennett agreed another person would be appointed defence chief if a unity government or narrow right-wing coalition is formed.

Israel's Netanyahu appoints far-right Bennett as defence minister

Former military chief Benny Gantz, 60, received an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-rival-gantz-to-be-named-to-try-to-form-next-israeli-government-257632">official mandate</a> on Wednesday to try to form Israel's next government, but with no easy path to ending Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long hold on power.

After inconclusive elections in April and September, Gantz's nomination marked the first time since 2008 that someone other than Netanyahu, 70, has been asked by Israel's president to build a ruling coalition.

"Everyone expects us to bring political chaos to an absolute end. Everyone demands us to allow the whole country to gradually return to a normal, functioning, safe and calm life routine. An entire country is awaiting a breath of relief", Gantz said.

Head of the centrist Blue and White party, Gantz will have 28 days to complete the task assigned by President Reuven Rivlin. Failure could lead to a new election, the third within a year.

Watch Video

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elections-referendum-or-netanyahu-250142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I decided today to give you, member of the Knesset Benny Gantz, the possibility to establish a government. The law gives you 28 days starting tomorrow to establish a government", Rivlin said.

Rivlin gave <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahus-rival-benny-gantz-calls-off-israel-unity-government-talks-reports-253192">Netanyahu the chance to form a government first</a>. But the prime minister, who leads the right-wing Likud party, said on Monday that he was abandoning the effort, opening the way for Gantz, his strongest rival.

"I promised to establish a liberal unity government, and that, I intend to do. In the government that I will establish, I will serve all citizens of Israel and will work to benefit all citizens of Israel. I will act to form a functioning government, a government that Israel needs so much", Benny Gantz said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Former military chief Benny Gantz, 60, received an official mandate on Wednesday to try to form Israel's next government, but with no easy path to ending Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long hold on power.

Former military chief Benny Gantz, 60, received an official mandate on Wednesday to try to form Israel's next government, but with no easy path to ending Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long hold on power. After inconclusive elections in April and September, Gantz's nomination marked the first time since 2008 that someone other than Netanyahu, 70, has been asked by Israel's president to build a ruling coalition. "Everyone expects us to bring political chaos to an absolute end. Everyone demands us to allow the whole country to gradually return to a normal, functioning, safe and calm life routine. An entire country is awaiting a breath of relief", Gantz said. Head of the centrist Blue and White party, Gantz will have 28 days to complete the task assigned by President Reuven Rivlin. Failure could lead to a new election, the third within a year. Watch Video "I decided today to give you, member of the Knesset Benny Gantz, the possibility to establish a government. The law gives you 28 days starting tomorrow to establish a government", Rivlin said. Rivlin gave Netanyahu the chance to form a government first. But the prime minister, who leads the right-wing Likud party, said on Monday that he was abandoning the effort, opening the way for Gantz, his strongest rival. "I promised to establish a liberal unity government, and that, I intend to do. In the government that I will establish, I will serve all citizens of Israel and will work to benefit all citizens of Israel. I will act to form a functioning government, a government that Israel needs so much", Benny Gantz said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Former military chief Gantz receives official mandate to form government in Israel

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin will on Wednesday task centrist politician Benny Gantz with trying to form the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-suffers-defeat-in-failing-to-form-israeli-government-257515">next coalition government</a> after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed, Rivlin's office said on Tuesday.

Netanyahu, a fourth-term conservative whose party tied with Gantz's in a September election, told Rivlin on Monday (October 21) that he was giving up on forming the government after failing to win support from a majority of parliament.

For the first time in a decade, someone other than Netanyahu will be asked to form a government in Israel.

The 70-year-old prime minister has called two elections this year, has twice been given the chance by the president to put together a ruling coalition and has twice failed.

Rivlin will on Wednesday turn to Gantz, leaving Netanyahu even more vulnerable in his fight for political survival.

But although he has failed, Gantz - a former general and political novice - also has no clear path to success.

Gantz's Blue and White party said in a statement it was "determined to form a liberal unity government."

Netanyahu, in power for the past decade and 13 years in total, has seen his political strength wane as he faces a looming indictment on corruption allegations he denies. Gantz, a former military chief, has pledged not to serve in a government under a premier facing criminal charges.

Likud placed second in the September ballot with 32 seats in the 120-member parliament, behind 33 for Blue and White.

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin will on Wednesday task centrist politician Benny Gantz with trying to form the next coalition government after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed, Rivlin's office said on Tuesday.

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin will on Wednesday task centrist politician Benny Gantz with trying to form the next coalition government after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed, Rivlin's office said on Tuesday. Netanyahu, a fourth-term conservative whose party tied with Gantz's in a September election, told Rivlin on Monday (October 21) that he was giving up on forming the government after failing to win support from a majority of parliament. For the first time in a decade, someone other than Netanyahu will be asked to form a government in Israel. The 70-year-old prime minister has called two elections this year, has twice been given the chance by the president to put together a ruling coalition and has twice failed. Rivlin will on Wednesday turn to Gantz, leaving Netanyahu even more vulnerable in his fight for political survival. But although he has failed, Gantz - a former general and political novice - also has no clear path to success. Gantz's Blue and White party said in a statement it was "determined to form a liberal unity government." Netanyahu, in power for the past decade and 13 years in total, has seen his political strength wane as he faces a looming indictment on corruption allegations he denies. Gantz, a former military chief, has pledged not to serve in a government under a premier facing criminal charges. Likud placed second in the September ballot with 32 seats in the 120-member parliament, behind 33 for Blue and White.

Netanyahu rival Gantz to be named to try to form next Israeli government

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

Benjamin Netanyahu fails to form government

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

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

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

Netanyahu suffers defeat in failing to form Israeli government

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

Israel's Arab party supports Gantz ahead of Netanyahu

Israeli Arab political parties are backing ex-military chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benny-gantz-meet-the-three-star-general-running-for-israeli-prime-minister-208484">Benny Gantz</a> as the country's next prime minister in a break with precedent, they announced Sunday.

The mainly Arab Joint List alliance made the announcement at roughly the same time as its leader, Ayman Odeh, published an opinion piece on the New York Times website speaking of the move.

It was the first time since 1992 that majority Arab parties have endorsed a candidate for prime minister.

Shortly later, Odeh told Israeli President Reuven Rivlin the alliance's priority was to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from power, and was therefore recommending Gantz.

He made the comments as Rivlin consulted with Israeli political parties on who should form the next government following Tuesday's deadlocked general elections.

The Joint List won 13 seats in the election, making them the third-largest force in the 120-seat legislature.

One party within the alliance, accounting for three seats, signalled it was against the decision.

Even with the endorsement of all 13 seats, Gantz and his centrist Blue and White alliance would fall short of 61 needed for a majority.&nbsp;

He is expected to have the endorsement of 57 seats during Rivlin's consultations. Netanyahu is expected to receive 55.

Rivlin has said he believes a unity government should include both Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White in order to create a stable coalition.

Israeli Arab political parties are backing ex-military chief Benny Gantz as the country's next prime minister in a break with precedent, they announced Sunday. The mainly Arab Joint List alliance made the announcement at roughly the same time as its leader, Ayman Odeh, published an opinion piece on the New York Times website speaking of the move.

Israeli Arab political parties are backing ex-military chief Benny Gantz as the country's next prime minister in a break with precedent, they announced Sunday. The mainly Arab Joint List alliance made the announcement at roughly the same time as its leader, Ayman Odeh, published an opinion piece on the New York Times website speaking of the move. It was the first time since 1992 that majority Arab parties have endorsed a candidate for prime minister. Shortly later, Odeh told Israeli President Reuven Rivlin the alliance's priority was to oust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from power, and was therefore recommending Gantz. He made the comments as Rivlin consulted with Israeli political parties on who should form the next government following Tuesday's deadlocked general elections. The Joint List won 13 seats in the election, making them the third-largest force in the 120-seat legislature. One party within the alliance, accounting for three seats, signalled it was against the decision. Even with the endorsement of all 13 seats, Gantz and his centrist Blue and White alliance would fall short of 61 needed for a majority. He is expected to have the endorsement of 57 seats during Rivlin's consultations. Netanyahu is expected to receive 55. Rivlin has said he believes a unity government should include both Netanyahu's Likud and Blue and White in order to create a stable coalition.

Israeli Arab parties back Gantz for PM in break with precedent

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election.

A surge in turnout gave the Arab-dominated Joint List 13 of the Knesset's 120 seats, making it the third-largest grouping behind Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud Party, with 31 seats, and Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White, with 33.

That would make the Joint List the largest opposition grouping in parliament if a unity government takes shape, a realistic possibility even though Gantz rebuffed Netanyahu's initial invitation.

No party drawn from the 21 per cent Arab minority has ever been part of an Israeli government. But if Joint List head Ayman Odeh, 44, becomes opposition leader, he would receive monthly briefings from the Mossad intelligence agency and meet visiting heads of state.

This would provide a platform to voice Arab complaints of discrimination against them and give a bigger platform to Arab parties that differ with parties drawn from the country's Jewish majority.

"It is an interesting position, never before held by someone from the Arab population. It has a lot of influence," Odeh told reporters outside his home in Haifa, a mixed Arab and Jewish city in northern Israel.

But although the Joint List will be the single biggest group, other opposition parties combined would have enough seats to block his appointment through an absolute majority vote, analysts said.

"There's no way the other parties will agree to have Ayman Odeh as head of the opposition, and grant our community recognition and legitimacy," said Aida Touma-Sliman, an Arab lawmaker from Odeh's Hadash faction.

Arab lawmakers often call for an end to Israel's occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and the dismantling of Israel's settlements in the West Bank.

"Symbolic win"

The Arab community in Israel is mainly descendants of the Palestinians who remained in Israel after its creation in 1948, and some in the younger generation openly identify as Palestinian.

They make up 1.9 million of Israel's 9 million population, and often complains of discrimination in health, education and housing, living in cities such as Nazareth and Acre in the north and Bedouin towns in the southern Negev desert.

The Mossawa Center rights group says Israel's state budget often favours Jews, allocating more funds to Jewish localities and schools than to Arab ones. Some 47% of Arab citizens live in poverty, far above a national average of 18%, it says.

However, Netanyahu's Likud party counters that its 15 billion shekel ($4.19 billion) investment plan for the Arab sector during the last parliament "is the largest such commitment in Israel’s history", according to Eli Hazan, Likud's foreign affairs director.

In Tuesday's election, Odeh and his group of four Arab parties ran a united front and Arab turnout increased sharply. That helped them regain seats lost in April when they were divided and turnout plummeted.

The Joint List held up its stronger showing on Tuesday's rerun as a victory over what is described as an "unprecedented campaign of incitement against the Arab public" by Netanyahu and right-wing parties.

Netanyahu made allegations of voter fraud in Arab communities an issue in his election campaign, and sought to deploy cameras to the country's polling centres in what Arab leaders described an attempt to scare off voters. Israel's top court refused to allow cameras.

Eid Jbaili, a 55-year-old gym teacher from Haifa, said he boycotted the April election but voted on Tuesday "because my community's leaders showed they could exude unity in the face of adversity".

But Jbaili was unsure an Arab opposition leader would be able to provide anything beyond a "small symbolic win" for his community.

"We still won't be decision-makers in this country," he said.

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election.

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election. A surge in turnout gave the Arab-dominated Joint List 13 of the Knesset's 120 seats, making it the third-largest grouping behind Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud Party, with 31 seats, and Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White, with 33. That would make the Joint List the largest opposition grouping in parliament if a unity government takes shape, a realistic possibility even though Gantz rebuffed Netanyahu's initial invitation. No party drawn from the 21 per cent Arab minority has ever been part of an Israeli government. But if Joint List head Ayman Odeh, 44, becomes opposition leader, he would receive monthly briefings from the Mossad intelligence agency and meet visiting heads of state. This would provide a platform to voice Arab complaints of discrimination against them and give a bigger platform to Arab parties that differ with parties drawn from the country's Jewish majority. "It is an interesting position, never before held by someone from the Arab population. It has a lot of influence," Odeh told reporters outside his home in Haifa, a mixed Arab and Jewish city in northern Israel. But although the Joint List will be the single biggest group, other opposition parties combined would have enough seats to block his appointment through an absolute majority vote, analysts said. "There's no way the other parties will agree to have Ayman Odeh as head of the opposition, and grant our community recognition and legitimacy," said Aida Touma-Sliman, an Arab lawmaker from Odeh's Hadash faction. Arab lawmakers often call for an end to Israel's occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and the dismantling of Israel's settlements in the West Bank. "Symbolic win" The Arab community in Israel is mainly descendants of the Palestinians who remained in Israel after its creation in 1948, and some in the younger generation openly identify as Palestinian. They make up 1.9 million of Israel's 9 million population, and often complains of discrimination in health, education and housing, living in cities such as Nazareth and Acre in the north and Bedouin towns in the southern Negev desert. The Mossawa Center rights group says Israel's state budget often favours Jews, allocating more funds to Jewish localities and schools than to Arab ones. Some 47% of Arab citizens live in poverty, far above a national average of 18%, it says. However, Netanyahu's Likud party counters that its 15 billion shekel ($4.19 billion) investment plan for the Arab sector during the last parliament "is the largest such commitment in Israel’s history", according to Eli Hazan, Likud's foreign affairs director. In Tuesday's election, Odeh and his group of four Arab parties ran a united front and Arab turnout increased sharply. That helped them regain seats lost in April when they were divided and turnout plummeted. The Joint List held up its stronger showing on Tuesday's rerun as a victory over what is described as an "unprecedented campaign of incitement against the Arab public" by Netanyahu and right-wing parties. Netanyahu made allegations of voter fraud in Arab communities an issue in his election campaign, and sought to deploy cameras to the country's polling centres in what Arab leaders described an attempt to scare off voters. Israel's top court refused to allow cameras. Eid Jbaili, a 55-year-old gym teacher from Haifa, said he boycotted the April election but voted on Tuesday "because my community's leaders showed they could exude unity in the face of adversity". But Jbaili was unsure an Arab opposition leader would be able to provide anything beyond a "small symbolic win" for his community. "We still won't be decision-makers in this country," he said.

A historic first? Israel's Arabs could lead parliamentary opposition

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas said Wednesday he would be against a new Israeli government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, after elections left him tied with his main challenger and raised the prospect of negotiations to build a unity government.

"Our position: against Netanyahu," Abbas said during a visit to Oslo when questioned over his preferences for a new Israeli government. &nbsp;

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas said Wednesday he would be against a new Israeli government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, after elections left him tied with his main challenger and raised the prospect of negotiations to build a unity government.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas said Wednesday he would be against a new Israeli government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, after elections left him tied with his main challenger and raised the prospect of negotiations to build a unity government. "Our position: against Netanyahu," Abbas said during a visit to Oslo when questioned over his preferences for a new Israeli government.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas 'against' possible new Netanyahu government

Diplomatic ties between India & Israel were established only in the year 1992. But cooperation, especially of the military kind, has a much older story. Look how the relationships have shaped up over the years and what the future holds.

Gravitas: The Growing 'Israel-India' Partnership

As many as 30 political parties contesting this election they are competing rather for 120 seats. The majority mark is 61. But neither Netanyahu nor Giantz has a clear path to form a government. Here are some key points for the same.

Gravitas: Key Points Of Israel Elections

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-appears-from-exit-polls-that-prime-minister-netanyahu-lost-israels-opposition-leader-250285">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-israel-decides-netanyahus-fate-in-crucial-elections-250281">right-wing Likud party</a>'s account for violating election day rules.

The function, a type of automated software that simulates a conversation with a user, was running again within a few hours.

"They took a 100 kg hammer and brought it down on a fly, because it is a Likud fly," Netanyahu said in a video posted on social media. "They shut down our means of communication with our voters."

Israel's Central Elections Committee said the chatbot had been used to publish poll data in contravention of regulations.

Netanyahu appeared to play down the violation, saying: "Someone published a small poll on Facebook."

The problematic posts were apparently taken down and no longer appeared on his Facebook page.

Netanyahu, who is battling for his political career, has been trying to mobilise his base by warning them of low supporter turnout.

Israel Elects: Exit polls predict electoral stalemate

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elects-exit-polls-predict-electoral-stalemate-250295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Asked about its intervention on Netanyahu's account, Facebook said in a statement it works with "elections commissions around the world to help protect the integrity of elections".

"Our policies clearly state developers are required to comply with all applicable laws in the country where their app is available. We have restricted this bot for violating local law until the polling stations are closed tonight," it said.

Clearing the way for Facebook to reinstate the chatbot, Judge Hanan Melcer, chairman of the Israeli Central Elections Committee, said he received an assurance from Likud that no further poll data would be published on it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his right-wing Likud party's account for violating election day rules.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at Facebook on Tuesday after the social network blocked a "chatbot" from his right-wing Likud party's account for violating election day rules. The function, a type of automated software that simulates a conversation with a user, was running again within a few hours. "They took a 100 kg hammer and brought it down on a fly, because it is a Likud fly," Netanyahu said in a video posted on social media. "They shut down our means of communication with our voters." Israel's Central Elections Committee said the chatbot had been used to publish poll data in contravention of regulations. Netanyahu appeared to play down the violation, saying: "Someone published a small poll on Facebook." The problematic posts were apparently taken down and no longer appeared on his Facebook page. Netanyahu, who is battling for his political career, has been trying to mobilise his base by warning them of low supporter turnout. Israel Elects: Exit polls predict electoral stalemate Asked about its intervention on Netanyahu's account, Facebook said in a statement it works with "elections commissions around the world to help protect the integrity of elections". "Our policies clearly state developers are required to comply with all applicable laws in the country where their app is available. We have restricted this bot for violating local law until the polling stations are closed tonight," it said. Clearing the way for Facebook to reinstate the chatbot, Judge Hanan Melcer, chairman of the Israeli Central Elections Committee, said he received an assurance from Likud that no further poll data would be published on it.

Facebook briefly blocks Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu chatbot on election day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-israel-decides-netanyahus-fate-in-crucial-elections-250281">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>'s main election challenger, centrist party chief Benny Gantz, said on Wednesday it appeared from exit polls that the Israeli leader was defeated but that only official results would tell.

Gantz, a former general, stopped short of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-israels-longest-serving-premier-fights-for-his-future-250078">outright claim of victory</a>. But beaming confidence, he told a rally of his Blue and White Party that it appeared "we fulfilled our mission", and he pledged to work towards the formation of a national unity government.

Netanyahu, he said, apparently "did not succeed in his mission" to win a fifth term in a do-over election that followed an inconclusive national ballot in April. "We will await the actual results," Gantz said.

The prime minister, head of the right-wing Likud and Israel's longest-serving leader, was due to deliver a "brief but important" address at its election headquarters at around 3am.

Revised surveys, several hours after polls closed, by Israeli TV stations, gave Likud 30 to 33 of parliament's 120 seats, a slight drop from earlier forecasts, versus 32 to 34 for Blue and White.

Neither had enough support, at first glance, for a governing coalition of 61 legislators and Netanyahu's ally-turned-rival, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, emerged as a likely kingmaker as head of the far-right Yisrael Beitenu party.

"Netanyahu has lost, but Gantz hasn't won," said Udi Segal, a prominent Israeli television news anchor.

Israel elections: Referendum or Netanyahu?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-elections-referendum-or-netanyahu-250142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The revised polls showed that without Yisrael Beitenu's projected eight to nine seats, stalemate could ensue: Likud would have the support of only up to 55 legislators, down from 57 in the earlier exit polls, for a right-wing coalition. Blue and White could enlist the backing of no more than 59 for a centre-left government.

"We have only one option - a national, liberal, broad government comprising Israel Beitenu, Likud and Blue and White," said Lieberman, whose projected tally was double the result in April.

Coalition-building could be complicated: Lieberman has said he would not join an alliance that included ultra-Orthodox parties - Netanyahu's traditional partners.

Gantz has ruled out participating in an administration with Netanyahu, if the Israeli leader is indicted on looming corruption charges.

Corruption charges

Dubbed "King Bibi" by his supporters, Netanyahu, 69, had already been stung by his failure to form a government after the April poll.

Looming corruption charges - he has denied any wrongdoing - have also chipped away at Netanyahu's seeming invincibility, 10 years into consecutive terms as prime minister marked by a sharp focus on security that resonated with voters.

"Unless that miraculous turnabout between the exit polls and the actual results happens - the Netanyahu magic has been broken," Anshel Pfeffer, author of a Netanyahu biography, wrote in the left-wing Haaretz daily.

Addressing supporters after the exit polls, Lieberman appealed to President Reuven Rivlin to invite Netanyahu and Gantz to meet as early as Friday, even before final results are in, to explore the formation of a national unity government.

The two main parties' campaigns pointed to only narrow differences on many important issues: the regional struggle against Iran, the Palestinian conflict, relations with the United States and the economy.

An end to the Netanyahu era would be unlikely to bring about a significant change in policy on hotly disputed issues in the peace process with the Palestinians that collapsed five years ago.

Annexation

Netanyahu has announced his intention to annex the Jordan Valley in the occupied West Bank, where the Palestinians seek statehood.

But Blue and White has also said it would strengthen Jewish settlement blocs in the West Bank, with the Jordan Valley as Israel's "eastern security border".

As in the election five months ago, Netanyahu's opponents, including Gantz, focussed on bribery and fraud allegations against the prime minister in three corruption cases.

Netanyahu is due to face a pre-trial hearing in October to argue against the charges being filed.

An election loss could leave him more at risk of prosecution, without the shield of parliamentary immunity that his political allies had promised to seek for him. There is no certainty they would stand by a weakened leader without an obvious public mandate in any coalition-building.

Netanyahu portrays Gantz, 60, as inexperienced and incapable of commanding respect from world leaders such as US President Donald Trump.

Before the last election, Trump gave Netanyahu a lift with US recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. This time, the White House seems more preoccupied with Iran.

The Trump administration plans soon to release an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan that may prove a dead letter: The Palestinians have rejected it in advance as biased. Netanyahu's open door in Washington and other world capitals, at a combustible time on Israel's borders with Syria, Gaza and Lebanon, remains a big draw domestically.

In the final hours of campaigning, Netanyahu strained every sinew, urging voters to support him to avert what he described as the "disaster" of a left-wing government.

His voice hoarse, the veteran leader took to the streets and social media, at one point using a megaphone in Jerusalem's bus station, to appeal to voters to extend his unbroken decade in power.

In Gaza, Palestinians awaited the results of the vote.

"This election affects many things in our life," said Mohamad Abdul Hay Hasaneen, a janitor in the city of Khan Younis. "There might be limited escalations after the election, but I don’t think this would result in a full war."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's main election challenger, centrist party chief Benny Gantz, said on Wednesday it appeared from exit polls that the Israeli leader was defeated but that only official results would tell.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's main election challenger, centrist party chief Benny Gantz, said on Wednesday it appeared from exit polls that the Israeli leader was defeated but that only official results would tell. Gantz, a former general, stopped short of an outright claim of victory. But beaming confidence, he told a rally of his Blue and White Party that it appeared "we fulfilled our mission", and he pledged to work towards the formation of a national unity government. Netanyahu, he said, apparently "did not succeed in his mission" to win a fifth term in a do-over election that followed an inconclusive national ballot in April. "We will await the actual results," Gantz said. The prime minister, head of the right-wing Likud and Israel's longest-serving leader, was due to deliver a "brief but important" address at its election headquarters at around 3am. Revised surveys, several hours after polls closed, by Israeli TV stations, gave Likud 30 to 33 of parliament's 120 seats, a slight drop from earlier forecasts, versus 32 to 34 for Blue and White. Neither had enough support, at first glance, for a governing coalition of 61 legislators and Netanyahu's ally-turned-rival, former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, emerged as a likely kingmaker as head of the far-right Yisrael Beitenu party. "Netanyahu has lost, but Gantz hasn't won," said Udi Segal, a prominent Israeli television news anchor. Israel elections: Referendum or Netanyahu? The revised polls showed that without Yisrael Beitenu's projected eight to nine seats, stalemate could ensue: Likud would have the support of only up to 55 legislators, down from 57 in the earlier exit polls, for a right-wing coalition. Blue and White could enlist the backing of no more than 59 for a centre-left government. "We have only one option - a national, liberal, broad government comprising Israel Beitenu, Likud and Blue and White," said Lieberman, whose projected tally was double the result in April. Coalition-building could be complicated: Lieberman has said he would not join an alliance that included ultra-Orthodox parties - Netanyahu's traditional partners. Gantz has ruled out participating in an administration with Netanyahu, if the Israeli leader is indicted on looming corruption charges. Corruption charges Dubbed "King Bibi" by his supporters, Netanyahu, 69, had already been stung by his failure to form a government after the April poll. Looming corruption charges - he has denied any wrongdoing - have also chipped away at Netanyahu's seeming invincibility, 10 years into consecutive terms as prime minister marked by a sharp focus on security that resonated with voters. "Unless that miraculous turnabout between the exit polls and the actual results happens - the Netanyahu magic has been broken," Anshel Pfeffer, author of a Netanyahu biography, wrote in the left-wing Haaretz daily. Addressing supporters after the exit polls, Lieberman appealed to President Reuven Rivlin to invite Netanyahu and Gantz to meet as early as Friday, even before final results are in, to explore the formation of a national unity government. The two main parties' campaigns pointed to only narrow differences on many important issues: the regional struggle against Iran, the Palestinian conflict, relations with the United States and the economy. An end to the Netanyahu era would be unlikely to bring about a significant change in policy on hotly disputed issues in the peace process with the Palestinians that collapsed five years ago. Annexation Netanyahu has announced his intention to annex the Jordan Valley in the occupied West Bank, where the Palestinians seek statehood. But Blue and White has also said it would strengthen Jewish settlement blocs in the West Bank, with the Jordan Valley as Israel's "eastern security border". As in the election five months ago, Netanyahu's opponents, including Gantz, focussed on bribery and fraud allegations against the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu is due to face a pre-trial hearing in October to argue against the charges being filed. An election loss could leave him more at risk of prosecution, without the shield of parliamentary immunity that his political allies had promised to seek for him. There is no certainty they would stand by a weakened leader without an obvious public mandate in any coalition-building. Netanyahu portrays Gantz, 60, as inexperienced and incapable of commanding respect from world leaders such as US President Donald Trump. Before the last election, Trump gave Netanyahu a lift with US recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. This time, the White House seems more preoccupied with Iran. The Trump administration plans soon to release an Israeli-Palestinian peace plan that may prove a dead letter: The Palestinians have rejected it in advance as biased. Netanyahu's open door in Washington and other world capitals, at a combustible time on Israel's borders with Syria, Gaza and Lebanon, remains a big draw domestically. In the final hours of campaigning, Netanyahu strained every sinew, urging voters to support him to avert what he described as the "disaster" of a left-wing government. His voice hoarse, the veteran leader took to the streets and social media, at one point using a megaphone in Jerusalem's bus station, to appeal to voters to extend his unbroken decade in power. In Gaza, Palestinians awaited the results of the vote. "This election affects many things in our life," said Mohamad Abdul Hay Hasaneen, a janitor in the city of Khan Younis. "There might be limited escalations after the election, but I don’t think this would result in a full war."

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Daniele Pagani, Bureau Chief, West Asia on Israel Elections

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Netanyahu to fight for a new term after a decade in power. So, Will Netanyahu get enough votes in the polls? We tried to decode this by speaking with Jodie Cohen, A political consultant in Israel. Watch this video to know more.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his intention to annex the Jordan Valley, a large swathe of the occupied West Bank, if he wins the elections in a closely contested race.

Netanyahu announces annexation of West Bank's Jordan Valley

Israelis will vote in a national parliamentary election on September 17, the second to be held this year. The ballot could win Netanyahu a fifth term, or end his decade-long dominance of Israeli politics. Watch this video to know more.

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Palestinians in the Jordan Valley on Wednesday accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to steal their land after the right-wing leader pledged to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-vows-to-annex-west-banks-jordan-valley-if-re-elected-248927">annex the West Bank territory </a>if successful in an election just six days away.

Netanyahu's declaration was widely seen as a bid to siphon away support from far-right rivals who have long advocated annexation of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, territory Israel captured in a 1967 war, ahead of a tightly-contested September 17 vote.

While some in Israel consider the country's control over the Jordan valley as a security necessity, Palestinians see it as theirs and want it for a future state.

In the village of Jiftlik, farmers tilled land for vegetable and seed production along a long a stretch of the fertile valley that juts up against the biblical Jordan River, surrounded by desert mountain ranges.

"We tell Netanyahu, and whoever follows him, you will not break the Palestinians' will," said Hassan Al-Abedi, a Palestinian farmer who lives in the village.

"It's our parents' and grandparents land. We will hold onto it no matter what it costs," 55-year-old Abedi said.

Netanyahu on Tuesday (September 10) announced he intended, "after the establishment of a new government, to apply Israeli sovereignty to the Jordan Valley and the northern Dead Sea," drawing condemnation from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and leaders across the Arab world.

Around 65,000 Palestinians and 11,000 Israeli settlers live in the Jordan Valley and northern Dead Sea area, according to the Israeli human rights group B'Tselem. The main Palestinian city is Jericho, with around 28 villages and smaller Bedouin communities.

Palestinians in the Jordan Valley on Wednesday accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to steal their land after the right-wing leader pledged to annex the West Bank territory if successful in an election just six days away.

Palestinians in the Jordan Valley on Wednesday accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of trying to steal their land after the right-wing leader pledged to annex the West Bank territory if successful in an election just six days away. Netanyahu's declaration was widely seen as a bid to siphon away support from far-right rivals who have long advocated annexation of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, territory Israel captured in a 1967 war, ahead of a tightly-contested September 17 vote. While some in Israel consider the country's control over the Jordan valley as a security necessity, Palestinians see it as theirs and want it for a future state. In the village of Jiftlik, farmers tilled land for vegetable and seed production along a long a stretch of the fertile valley that juts up against the biblical Jordan River, surrounded by desert mountain ranges. "We tell Netanyahu, and whoever follows him, you will not break the Palestinians' will," said Hassan Al-Abedi, a Palestinian farmer who lives in the village. "It's our parents' and grandparents land. We will hold onto it no matter what it costs," 55-year-old Abedi said. Netanyahu on Tuesday (September 10) announced he intended, "after the establishment of a new government, to apply Israeli sovereignty to the Jordan Valley and the northern Dead Sea," drawing condemnation from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and leaders across the Arab world. Around 65,000 Palestinians and 11,000 Israeli settlers live in the Jordan Valley and northern Dead Sea area, according to the Israeli human rights group B'Tselem. The main Palestinian city is Jericho, with around 28 villages and smaller Bedouin communities.

'You will not break us, Palestinians tell Netanyahu after Jordan Valley annexation pledge

Israeli PM, Netanyahu said If he wins the elections he will annex Jordon valley. Know about the latest updates from Daniele Pagani, Bureau Chief, West Asia

Today Tonight: Netanyahu vows to annex West Bank Parts

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday he planned to annex the Jordan Valley, a large swathe of the occupied West Bank, if he wins a closely contested election just a week away. Watch this video to know more.

Israeli PM Netanyahu vows to annex Jordan Valley if re-elected

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