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. WION speaks to Daniele Pagani, West Asia bureau chief for more on this.

WION Dispatch: Netanyahu's big pre-election pledge

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: What is Israeli settlement & why does it matter for Netanyahu's re-elections?

What is Israeli settlement & why does it matter for Netanyahu's re-elections?

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.

Benjamin Netanyahu's big pre-election pledge

Israel heads into the final week of campaigning Monday for an unprecedented second general election in five months, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu battling for political survival while facing a potential corruption indictment.

With the September 17 vote looming, Netanyahu and his right-wing Likud have drawn outrage from opposition parties with a push for last-minute legislation that would allow party officials to bring cameras to polling stations.

His critics have labelled it a naked attempt to depress turnout among Israel's Arab population, as it could intimidate many into staying away.

They also point out that it could serve to energize Netanyahu's base of right-wing voters due to his warnings so far unfounded that the election could be stolen.

The Likud chief says he is only interested in protecting the integrity of the vote and preventing irregularities.

But the main opposition Blue and White centrist alliance's leader Benny Gantz retorted: "The only fraud in our political system is Netanyahu."

The veteran premier has used similar tactics in the past, including warning on election day in 2015 that Israeli Arabs were voting in "droves," a comment for which he later apologized.

Parliament had planned to hold the first of three required votes on the bill on Monday, but it failed to receive necessary backing from a committee, and its future was unclear.

Gantz vowed to vote against it, and ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman said his nationalist Yisrael Beitenu would do the same.

The bill would allow election supervisors from political parties to bring cameras to polling stations, though not inside voting booths.

Netanyahu's camera legislation comes as he struggles to remain in office and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

After April elections, Likud along with its right-wing and religious allies won a majority of seats, but Netanyahu was unable to form a governing coalition, suffering one of the biggest defeats of his political career.

He was unable to do so because he could not convince his old nemesis Lieberman to abandon a key demand and join the government.

Netanyahu then opted to move toward a second election rather than risk Israeli President Reuven Rivlin choosing someone else to try to form a government.

Trump, Putin posters

Lieberman has only gained in support since the last election, opinion polls show, and Netanyahu may face a similar conundrum after the upcoming vote.

His main challenger is ex-military chief Gantz and his centrist alliance, as was the case in April.

Netanyahu has once again sought to highlight his links with world leaders, posting giant posters of himself alongside US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He says he hopes to visit Russia later this week to hold talks with Putin.

Ahead of April polls, Trump made controversial moves seen as backing Netanyahu, including recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights.

So far Netanyahu has not benefited from similar decisions in the run-up to next week's vote.

Gantz has sought to maintain a stoic presence as part of a campaign to present himself as someone Israelis can trust on security issues.

He has criticized Netanyahu's approach to the Gaza Strip, where UN and Egyptian officials have negotiated a truce between Islamist movement Hamas and Israel.

But his main approach has been to argue that he can restore dignity to the prime minister's office after years of investigations into Netanyahu's affairs.

Israel's attorney general has said he intends to indict Netanyahu on charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust, pending a hearing expected in early October.

Netanyahu is not required to step down if indicted only if convicted with all appeals exhausted.

Gantz, who has ruled out serving in a government with a prime minister under indictment, has sought to convince other members of Likud to abandon Netanyahu and form a unity government with his Blue and White, so far without success.

The two sides won 35 seats each in the last election, but a majority of lawmakers endorsed Netanyahu as prime minister.

It is not clear whether Lieberman will endorse Netanyahu again.

Israel heads into the final week of campaigning Monday for an unprecedented second general election in five months, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu battling for political survival while facing a potential corruption indictment.

Israel heads into the final week of campaigning Monday for an unprecedented second general election in five months, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu battling for political survival while facing a potential corruption indictment. With the September 17 vote looming, Netanyahu and his right-wing Likud have drawn outrage from opposition parties with a push for last-minute legislation that would allow party officials to bring cameras to polling stations. His critics have labelled it a naked attempt to depress turnout among Israel's Arab population, as it could intimidate many into staying away. They also point out that it could serve to energize Netanyahu's base of right-wing voters due to his warnings so far unfounded that the election could be stolen. The Likud chief says he is only interested in protecting the integrity of the vote and preventing irregularities. But the main opposition Blue and White centrist alliance's leader Benny Gantz retorted: "The only fraud in our political system is Netanyahu." The veteran premier has used similar tactics in the past, including warning on election day in 2015 that Israeli Arabs were voting in "droves," a comment for which he later apologized. Parliament had planned to hold the first of three required votes on the bill on Monday, but it failed to receive necessary backing from a committee, and its future was unclear. Gantz vowed to vote against it, and ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman said his nationalist Yisrael Beitenu would do the same. The bill would allow election supervisors from political parties to bring cameras to polling stations, though not inside voting booths. Netanyahu's camera legislation comes as he struggles to remain in office and continue his reign as Israel's longest-serving prime minister. After April elections, Likud along with its right-wing and religious allies won a majority of seats, but Netanyahu was unable to form a governing coalition, suffering one of the biggest defeats of his political career. He was unable to do so because he could not convince his old nemesis Lieberman to abandon a key demand and join the government. Netanyahu then opted to move toward a second election rather than risk Israeli President Reuven Rivlin choosing someone else to try to form a government. Trump, Putin posters Lieberman has only gained in support since the last election, opinion polls show, and Netanyahu may face a similar conundrum after the upcoming vote. His main challenger is ex-military chief Gantz and his centrist alliance, as was the case in April. Netanyahu has once again sought to highlight his links with world leaders, posting giant posters of himself alongside US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He says he hopes to visit Russia later this week to hold talks with Putin. Ahead of April polls, Trump made controversial moves seen as backing Netanyahu, including recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights. So far Netanyahu has not benefited from similar decisions in the run-up to next week's vote. Gantz has sought to maintain a stoic presence as part of a campaign to present himself as someone Israelis can trust on security issues. He has criticized Netanyahu's approach to the Gaza Strip, where UN and Egyptian officials have negotiated a truce between Islamist movement Hamas and Israel. But his main approach has been to argue that he can restore dignity to the prime minister's office after years of investigations into Netanyahu's affairs. Israel's attorney general has said he intends to indict Netanyahu on charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust, pending a hearing expected in early October. Netanyahu is not required to step down if indicted only if convicted with all appeals exhausted. Gantz, who has ruled out serving in a government with a prime minister under indictment, has sought to convince other members of Likud to abandon Netanyahu and form a unity government with his Blue and White, so far without success. The two sides won 35 seats each in the last election, but a majority of lawmakers endorsed Netanyahu as prime minister. It is not clear whether Lieberman will endorse Netanyahu again.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu fights for political life a week before Israel votes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to annex Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, he said on Sunday, reiterating election promise made five months ago but again giving no timeframe.

Settlements are one of the most heated issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestinians have voiced fears that Netanyahu could defy international consensus and move ahead with annexation with possible backing from US President Donald Trump, a close ally.

"With God`s help we will extend Jewish sovereignty to all the settlements as part of the (biblical) Land of Israel, as part of the State of Israel," Netanyahu said in Sunday`s speech in the West Bank settlement of Elkana, where he attended a ceremony opening the school year.

He did not say when he planned to make such a move.

Netanyahu, who heads the right-wing Likud party, made a similar pledge days before an Israeli general election in April. After the vote he failed to form a governing parliamentary majority and the country will hold a new election on September 17.

With the publication of a US peace plan still pending, Trump has already recognised Israel`s 1981 annexation of the Golan Heights, territory Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war.

Palestinians seek to make the West Bank part of a future state that would include the Gaza Strip and have East Jerusalem as its capital. Israel captured those areas in 1967 and moved troops and settlers out of Gaza in 2005.

After decades of settlement-building, more than 400,000 Israelis now live in the West Bank, according to Israeli figures, among a Palestinian population put at about 2.9 million by the Palestinian Statistics Bureau.

A further 212,000 Israeli settlers live in East Jerusalem, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

"This is our land," Netanyahu said in his speech in Elkana. "We will build another Elkana and in another Elkana and another Elkana. We will not uproot anyone here," Netanyahu said.

The Palestinians and many countries consider settlements to be illegal under the Geneva conventions that bar settling on land captured in war. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical, historical and political connections to the land.

Israeli-Palestinian peace talks collapsed in 2014.

The Trump administration says it intends to release its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan after the Israeli election and has not disclosed whether it will advocate a two-state solution that has been at the foundation of past negotiations. 
&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to annex Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, he said on Sunday, reiterating election promise made five months ago but again giving no timeframe.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to annex Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, he said on Sunday, reiterating election promise made five months ago but again giving no timeframe. Settlements are one of the most heated issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Palestinians have voiced fears that Netanyahu could defy international consensus and move ahead with annexation with possible backing from US President Donald Trump, a close ally. "With God`s help we will extend Jewish sovereignty to all the settlements as part of the (biblical) Land of Israel, as part of the State of Israel," Netanyahu said in Sunday`s speech in the West Bank settlement of Elkana, where he attended a ceremony opening the school year. He did not say when he planned to make such a move. Netanyahu, who heads the right-wing Likud party, made a similar pledge days before an Israeli general election in April. After the vote he failed to form a governing parliamentary majority and the country will hold a new election on September 17. With the publication of a US peace plan still pending, Trump has already recognised Israel`s 1981 annexation of the Golan Heights, territory Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war. Palestinians seek to make the West Bank part of a future state that would include the Gaza Strip and have East Jerusalem as its capital. Israel captured those areas in 1967 and moved troops and settlers out of Gaza in 2005. After decades of settlement-building, more than 400,000 Israelis now live in the West Bank, according to Israeli figures, among a Palestinian population put at about 2.9 million by the Palestinian Statistics Bureau. A further 212,000 Israeli settlers live in East Jerusalem, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. "This is our land," Netanyahu said in his speech in Elkana. "We will build another Elkana and in another Elkana and another Elkana. We will not uproot anyone here," Netanyahu said. The Palestinians and many countries consider settlements to be illegal under the Geneva conventions that bar settling on land captured in war. Israel disputes this, citing security needs and biblical, historical and political connections to the land. Israeli-Palestinian peace talks collapsed in 2014. The Trump administration says it intends to release its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan after the Israeli election and has not disclosed whether it will advocate a two-state solution that has been at the foundation of past negotiations.

Netanyahu repeats pledge to annex Israeli settlements in occupied West Bank

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah to "calm down" after he said his movement was preparing a response to the crash of two Israeli drones in a Beirut suburb.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah to "calm down" after he said his movement was preparing a response to the crash of two Israeli drones in a Beirut suburb. "I heard what Nasrallah said. I suggest to Nasrallah to calm down. He knows well that Israel knows how to defend itself and to pay back its enemies," Netanyahu said in a speech. In a speech on Sunday, Nasrallah, whose Iran-backed movement fought a month-long war with Israel in 2006, accused Israel of carrying out a suicide drone attack earlier that day. "I say to the Israeli army on the border from tonight, stand guard (on high alert). Wait for us one, two, three, four days," Nasrallah said. One drone fell and a second exploded near the ground and caused some damage to Hezbollah's media centre in the southern suburbs of the capital which it dominates. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the incident.

Netanyahu tells Hezbollah's Nasrallah to 'calm down' after drone incident

Javad Zarif, Iran's top diplomat on a mission. Know about Iran's FM Javad Zarif.

Who is Iran's FM Javad Zarif?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Cabinet announced inauguration of Golan settlement named after the U.S. President Donald Trump. Watch this video to know more.

Netanyahu unveils 'Trump Heights' town

The New York Times has announced it will no longer include daily political cartoons in its international edition, weeks after apologising for publishing a caricature of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deemed anti-Semitic.

The cartoon, published in April, depicted Netanyahu as a guide dog wearing a Star of David collar and leading a blind Donald Trump -- who was wearing a kippah, or a Jewish skullcap.

It prompted an uproar within the Jewish community, with Israel's ambassador to the UN likening the drawing to the content of Nazi propaganda tabloid Der Sturmer.

Editor James Bennet said the paper had planned for a year to cease running political cartoons in the international print version of the Times, in line with the US edition.

The decision will come into effect on July 1, Bennet said in a Monday statement.&nbsp;

Patrick Chappatte, one of the paper's leading cartoonists, said the decision was directly related to the Netanyahu cartoon.&nbsp;

He condemned the publication of the caricature at the center of the controversy but said he was concerned that media outlets were increasingly buckling under political pressure and criticism from "moralistic mobs" on social media.

"Over the last years, some of the very best cartoonists... lost their positions because their publishers found their work too critical of Trump. Maybe we should start worrying," Chappatte wrote on his personal website.

Bennet said the newspaper hoped to keep working with Chappatte and fellow contributor Heng Kim Song on other projects.

New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger announced in May that the editor who published the cartoon would be disciplined.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The New York Times has announced it will no longer include daily political cartoons in its international edition, weeks after apologising for publishing a caricature of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deemed anti-Semitic.

The New York Times has announced it will no longer include daily political cartoons in its international edition, weeks after apologising for publishing a caricature of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deemed anti-Semitic. The cartoon, published in April, depicted Netanyahu as a guide dog wearing a Star of David collar and leading a blind Donald Trump -- who was wearing a kippah, or a Jewish skullcap. It prompted an uproar within the Jewish community, with Israel's ambassador to the UN likening the drawing to the content of Nazi propaganda tabloid Der Sturmer. Editor James Bennet said the paper had planned for a year to cease running political cartoons in the international print version of the Times, in line with the US edition. The decision will come into effect on July 1, Bennet said in a Monday statement. Patrick Chappatte, one of the paper's leading cartoonists, said the decision was directly related to the Netanyahu cartoon. He condemned the publication of the caricature at the center of the controversy but said he was concerned that media outlets were increasingly buckling under political pressure and criticism from "moralistic mobs" on social media. "Over the last years, some of the very best cartoonists... lost their positions because their publishers found their work too critical of Trump. Maybe we should start worrying," Chappatte wrote on his personal website. Bennet said the newspaper hoped to keep working with Chappatte and fellow contributor Heng Kim Song on other projects. New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger announced in May that the editor who published the cartoon would be disciplined.

New York Times to cease political cartoons after Netanyahu-Trump caricature row

Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-in-interview-does-not-rule-out-israeli-annexation-in-west-bank-225577"> Israel having the right to annex</a> at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue.

In a statement late Saturday in response to US ambassador to Israel David Friedman's comments in a New York Times interview, a Palestinian government spokesman said some leading US policy on the issue were "extremists" lacking in "political maturity."

The Palestinian foreign ministry said it was looking into filing a complaint with the International Criminal Court on the issue.

Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary general Saeb Erekat on Twitter called Friedman an "extreme ambassador of the settlers."

"Their vision is about the annexation of occupied territory, a war crime under international law," he said.

Erekat also renewed a Palestinian call for countries to boycott a June 25-26 conference in Bahrain to discuss economic aspects of a peace deal the White House has been working on.

In the interview published Saturday, Friedman said some degree of the annexation of the West Bank would be legitimate.

"Under certain circumstances, I think Israel has the right to retain some, but unlikely all, of the West Bank," he said.

Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Six-Day War and its construction of settlements there is viewed as a major stumbling block to peace as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

Friedman has in the past been a supporter of Israeli settlements as has the family of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser leading efforts to put together the peace deal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged ahead of April elections to begin annexing West Bank settlements.

Bringing settlements under Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale could end any remaining hopes for a two-state solution to Israel's conflict with the Palestinians.

More than 600,000 Jewish settlers now live in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem among some three million Palestinians.

On the long-delayed peace plan, Friedman said it was aimed at improving the quality of life for Palestinians but would fall well short of a "permanent resolution to the conflict".

Publication of the plan looks set to be further delayed after the Israeli parliament called a snap general election for September, the second this year.

The plan is regarded as too sensitive to release during the campaign.

The Palestinian leadership has already rejected the plan, saying Trump's moves so far show him to be blatantly biased in favour of Israel.

Those moves include recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cutting hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to the Palestinians.

Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on Israel having the right to annex at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue.

Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on Israel having the right to annex at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue. In a statement late Saturday in response to US ambassador to Israel David Friedman's comments in a New York Times interview, a Palestinian government spokesman said some leading US policy on the issue were "extremists" lacking in "political maturity." The Palestinian foreign ministry said it was looking into filing a complaint with the International Criminal Court on the issue. Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary general Saeb Erekat on Twitter called Friedman an "extreme ambassador of the settlers." "Their vision is about the annexation of occupied territory, a war crime under international law," he said. Erekat also renewed a Palestinian call for countries to boycott a June 25-26 conference in Bahrain to discuss economic aspects of a peace deal the White House has been working on. In the interview published Saturday, Friedman said some degree of the annexation of the West Bank would be legitimate. "Under certain circumstances, I think Israel has the right to retain some, but unlikely all, of the West Bank," he said. Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Six-Day War and its construction of settlements there is viewed as a major stumbling block to peace as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state. Friedman has in the past been a supporter of Israeli settlements as has the family of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser leading efforts to put together the peace deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged ahead of April elections to begin annexing West Bank settlements. Bringing settlements under Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale could end any remaining hopes for a two-state solution to Israel's conflict with the Palestinians. More than 600,000 Jewish settlers now live in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem among some three million Palestinians. On the long-delayed peace plan, Friedman said it was aimed at improving the quality of life for Palestinians but would fall well short of a "permanent resolution to the conflict". Publication of the plan looks set to be further delayed after the Israeli parliament called a snap general election for September, the second this year. The plan is regarded as too sensitive to release during the campaign. The Palestinian leadership has already rejected the plan, saying Trump's moves so far show him to be blatantly biased in favour of Israel. Those moves include recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cutting hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to the Palestinians.

US envoy's annexation comments show 'extremist' approach: Palestinian leaders

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 26) embarked on what he termed a "final effort" to break a deadlock in talks on forming a governing coalition ahead of a Wednesday deadline for a deal.

Netanyahu struggles to form government amid talk of new election

The Prime Minister’s Office informed Bennett and Shaked Sunday afternoon that they would no longer be serving as Education Minister and Justice Minister respectively, following the failure of their party to cross the electoral threshold in the April 9th election.

Netanyahu Fires Bennett, Shaked From Government Ahead of Election

Israeli lawmakers voted to dissolve parliament on Thursday (May 30), paving the way for a new election after veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a coalition government before a midnight deadline.

Israelis angered as they face second election in months

Israel Heads back to Elections and parliament votes 74 against 45 to dissolve itself. Netanyahu fails to build coalition

Israel Heads back to Elections

Israeli lawmakers voted on Thursday to dissolve parliament and set the country on the path to a second election. According to reports, right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to put together a ruling coalition before deadline. Watch this video to know more.

Israel heads back to election

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-protest-moves-to-grant-netanyahu-immunity-limit-supreme-court-221711">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> said Sunday he believed a deal to form a new coalition government remained possible, as speculation mounted over the possibility of fresh elections only days ahead of a deadline.

Netanyahu has been unable to reach a deal with potential coalition partners despite results from April 9 polls giving his Likud party and its right-wing and religious allies a majority in parliament.

Negotiations have broken down over legislation aimed at requiring ultra-Orthodox Jews to perform mandatory military service like other Jewish Israelis.

The deadline for Netanyahu to form a coalition is Wednesday.&nbsp;

Holding elections so close to one another would be unprecedented for Israel.<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/palestinians-voice-concern-over-netanyahu-win-215889/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

"I think that the problem can be solved with good will if that's what people want," Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting.

"If there's not a desire, and things are being aimed in a certain direction, it's unfortunate. I don't think the country needs to be dragged to another election, but there might be someone who wants that," he added.

Avigdor Lieberman, who is likely to become defence minister under a coalition deal, has pushed for a guarantee that a bill he backs on ultra-Orthodox military conscription be passed.

The ultra-Orthodox parties have refused to support this reform.

Netanyahu needs both Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party and the ultra-Orthodox to form the coalition he is seeking.

Likud and its allies hold 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament, including Yisrael Beitenu's five and the ultra-Orthodox parties' 16.

A Likud spokesman said Sunday that "if Lieberman continues to insist on taking down the government, the Likud has begun preparations ahead of elections."

But he added: "At this stage, there has been no decision on dissolving the Knesset (parliament)."

Netanyahu's party later said in a statement that "the ball is now in the court of the Lieberman camp. If he accepts, we have a right-wing government tonight."

Netanyahu had said on Twitter that he had put together a last-ditch proposal on the conscription issue and was meeting individually with party heads to discuss it.

Both Lieberman and ultra-Orthodox leaders indicated they were not prepared to compromise.

Lieberman refused to meet with Netanyahu on Sunday, his own party said in a statement.

It added that Lieberman remained committed to the proposed law.

Israeli media reported that Likud lawmakers had received a request to attend parliament on Monday afternoon to vote in favour of dissolution, in an apparent bid to put pressure on Lieberman to change his position and avoid fresh elections.

Separately, thousands protested in Tel Aviv on Saturday night against Netanyahu's reported attempts to seek immunity from prosecution as part of coalition negotiations. 
&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he believed a deal to form a new coalition government remained possible, as speculation mounted over the possibility of fresh elections only days ahead of a deadline.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he believed a deal to form a new coalition government remained possible, as speculation mounted over the possibility of fresh elections only days ahead of a deadline. Netanyahu has been unable to reach a deal with potential coalition partners despite results from April 9 polls giving his Likud party and its right-wing and religious allies a majority in parliament. Negotiations have broken down over legislation aimed at requiring ultra-Orthodox Jews to perform mandatory military service like other Jewish Israelis. The deadline for Netanyahu to form a coalition is Wednesday. Holding elections so close to one another would be unprecedented for Israel. "I think that the problem can be solved with good will if that's what people want," Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting. "If there's not a desire, and things are being aimed in a certain direction, it's unfortunate. I don't think the country needs to be dragged to another election, but there might be someone who wants that," he added. Avigdor Lieberman, who is likely to become defence minister under a coalition deal, has pushed for a guarantee that a bill he backs on ultra-Orthodox military conscription be passed. The ultra-Orthodox parties have refused to support this reform. Netanyahu needs both Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party and the ultra-Orthodox to form the coalition he is seeking. Likud and its allies hold 65 seats in the 120-seat parliament, including Yisrael Beitenu's five and the ultra-Orthodox parties' 16. A Likud spokesman said Sunday that "if Lieberman continues to insist on taking down the government, the Likud has begun preparations ahead of elections." But he added: "At this stage, there has been no decision on dissolving the Knesset (parliament)." Netanyahu's party later said in a statement that "the ball is now in the court of the Lieberman camp. If he accepts, we have a right-wing government tonight." Netanyahu had said on Twitter that he had put together a last-ditch proposal on the conscription issue and was meeting individually with party heads to discuss it. Both Lieberman and ultra-Orthodox leaders indicated they were not prepared to compromise. Lieberman refused to meet with Netanyahu on Sunday, his own party said in a statement. It added that Lieberman remained committed to the proposed law. Israeli media reported that Likud lawmakers had received a request to attend parliament on Monday afternoon to vote in favour of dissolution, in an apparent bid to put pressure on Lieberman to change his position and avoid fresh elections. Separately, thousands protested in Tel Aviv on Saturday night against Netanyahu's reported attempts to seek immunity from prosecution as part of coalition negotiations.

Netanyahu says coalition deal still possible as talk of new polls mounts

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning

Narendra Modi now is the leader with the largest popular mandate in the world. Watch full video to know more.

PM Narendra Modi now the leader with largest popular mandate in the world

With the general elections over and the new government all set to take the charge, a lot of incoming foreign visits are expected in months to come. Four important visits are already confirmed which include a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping both will be coming to India for the 2nd informal summit. In May last year, PM Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for an informal summit in the resort town of Sochi in Russia.

In April 2018, PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping for the informal summit in Wuhan which came in the backdrop of Doklam crisis of 2017 which saw a standoff between the Indian and the Chinese armies in the Bhutanese territory claimed by Beijing.

Another important visit will be that of the German Chancellor who will be visiting India for the 5th Intergovernmental Consultation. Confirming the visit, the new German envoy, Walter J Lindner told WION, "Chancellor will come again to India, at the end of the year. We have not yet fixed the date, but it will be October and November."

Chancellor Merkel visited India in October 2015. PM Modi visited Germany four times during his first term.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit is yet to be confirmed, New Delhi was ready to host the Isreali leader even before the dates of general elections were announced. The visit could not take place due to scheduling issues.

Asked when the visit will happen, Isreali envoy to India Ron Malka told WION, "hopefully in the near future, we will see, some kind of a visit, I am not sure when it will be, it is a matter of schedule. The PM wanted to come and will come."

Benjamin Netanyahu paid a visit to India in 2018 while Prime Minister Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Israel in July 2017.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India this year for the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan. Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which Japan announced it will be joining New Delhi-led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement.&nbsp;

The annual summit has become an occasion for both sides to show special gestures as part of growing ties between the two countries. In a special gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hosted by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a private dinner at his ancestral home in Yamanashi in 2018. It was the first time when such a reception was extended to a foreign leader. In 2017, PM Abe visited PM Modi's home state Gujarat where he was given a special welcome.

With the general elections over and the new government all set to take the charge, a lot of incoming foreign visits are expected in months to come. Four important visits are already confirmed which include a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

With the general elections over and the new government all set to take the charge, a lot of incoming foreign visits are expected in months to come. Four important visits are already confirmed which include a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping both will be coming to India for the 2nd informal summit. In May last year, PM Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for an informal summit in the resort town of Sochi in Russia. In April 2018, PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping for the informal summit in Wuhan which came in the backdrop of Doklam crisis of 2017 which saw a standoff between the Indian and the Chinese armies in the Bhutanese territory claimed by Beijing. Another important visit will be that of the German Chancellor who will be visiting India for the 5th Intergovernmental Consultation. Confirming the visit, the new German envoy, Walter J Lindner told WION, "Chancellor will come again to India, at the end of the year. We have not yet fixed the date, but it will be October and November." Chancellor Merkel visited India in October 2015. PM Modi visited Germany four times during his first term. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit is yet to be confirmed, New Delhi was ready to host the Isreali leader even before the dates of general elections were announced. The visit could not take place due to scheduling issues. Asked when the visit will happen, Isreali envoy to India Ron Malka told WION, "hopefully in the near future, we will see, some kind of a visit, I am not sure when it will be, it is a matter of schedule. The PM wanted to come and will come." Benjamin Netanyahu paid a visit to India in 2018 while Prime Minister Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Israel in July 2017. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India this year for the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan. Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which Japan announced it will be joining New Delhi-led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement. The annual summit has become an occasion for both sides to show special gestures as part of growing ties between the two countries. In a special gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hosted by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a private dinner at his ancestral home in Yamanashi in 2018. It was the first time when such a reception was extended to a foreign leader. In 2017, PM Abe visited PM Modi's home state Gujarat where he was given a special welcome.

Putin, Xi Jinping, Merkel, Shinzo Abe and Netanyahu to visit India this year

US President Donald Trump on Thursday took to Twitter and congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-is-a-mandate-to-form-new-india-pm-modi-delivers-first-address-after-lok-sabha-polls-result-221070">securing another term with a thumping majority</a>.&nbsp;

Trump stated that "great things are in store for US-India partnership" with Modi's return.

"Congratulations to Prime Minister @NarendraModi and his BJP party on their BIG election victory! Great things are in store for the US-India partnership with the return of PM Modi at the helm. I look forward to continuing our important work together!" his tweet read.&nbsp;

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Congratulations to Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> and his BJP party on their BIG election victory! Great things are in store for the US-India partnership with the return of PM Modi at the helm. I look forward to continuing our important work together!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1131609042227482625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also retained another term recently, also congratulated Modi and said that the only difference between their respective wins is that while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/my-friend-you-dont-need-a-coalition-but-i-do-when-netanyahu-congratulated-pm-modi-in-phone-call-221104">Modi doesn't need a coalition to form the government</a>, Netanyahu does.&nbsp;

Calling Modi his "friend", Netanyahu said he hopes to meet soon after the government formation in both the countries is over. A video clip of Netanyahu's telephonic conversation with PM Modi was released by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Pakistan Prime Minister also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-2019-look-forward-to-working-for-peace-progress-and-prosperity-in-south-asia-imran-khan-congratulates-pm-modi-220992">tweeted out a congratulatory post on BJP's win</a>.&nbsp;

"I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan's tweet read. &nbsp;

More than 20 world leaders congratulated PM Modi and he received calls from 13 world leaders - Bangladesh, Bhutan (the king and the PM), Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Japan, Australia, Mauritius, UAE and Israel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi and gave his first address after the party seemed poised to register a landslide win in Lok Sabha polls 2019.

The prime minister promised to devote "every moment" of his life and "every fibre" of his being for the people of India.&nbsp;

"This is a mandate to form new India," PM Modi said in his victory speech.

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Thursday took to Twitter and congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on securing another term with a thumping majority. Trump stated that "great things are in store for US-India partnership" with Modi's return.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday took to Twitter and congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on securing another term with a thumping majority. Trump stated that "great things are in store for US-India partnership" with Modi's return. "Congratulations to Prime Minister @NarendraModi and his BJP party on their BIG election victory! Great things are in store for the US-India partnership with the return of PM Modi at the helm. I look forward to continuing our important work together!" his tweet read. Congratulations to Prime Minister @NarendraModi and his BJP party on their BIG election victory! Great things are in store for the US-India partnership with the return of PM Modi at the helm. I look forward to continuing our important work together! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 23, 2019 × Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also retained another term recently, also congratulated Modi and said that the only difference between their respective wins is that while Modi doesn't need a coalition to form the government, Netanyahu does. Calling Modi his "friend", Netanyahu said he hopes to meet soon after the government formation in both the countries is over. A video clip of Netanyahu's telephonic conversation with PM Modi was released by news agency ANI. Earlier in the day, Pakistan Prime Minister also tweeted out a congratulatory post on BJP's win. "I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan's tweet read. More than 20 world leaders congratulated PM Modi and he received calls from 13 world leaders - Bangladesh, Bhutan (the king and the PM), Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Japan, Australia, Mauritius, UAE and Israel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi and gave his first address after the party seemed poised to register a landslide win in Lok Sabha polls 2019. The prime minister promised to devote "every moment" of his life and "every fibre" of his being for the people of India. "This is a mandate to form new India," PM Modi said in his victory speech. ×

Great things in store for US-India partnership with PM Modi's return: US President Donald Trump 

Wishes&nbsp;poured-in from all corners of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/world-leaders-congratulate-pm-modi-on-re-election-221092">world with leaders congratulating PM Modi</a> on registering a thumping victory in the Lok Sabha polls.

In a telephonic conversation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also retained another term recently, congratulated Modi and said that the only difference between their respective wins is that while Modi doesn't need a coalition to form the government, Netanyahu does.&nbsp;

Calling Modi his "friend", Netanyahu said he hopes to meet soon after the government formation in both the countries is over. A video clip of Netanyahu's telephonic conversation with PM Modi was released by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Pakistan Prime Minister also tweeted out a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-2019-look-forward-to-working-for-peace-progress-and-prosperity-in-south-asia-imran-khan-congratulates-pm-modi-220992">congratulatory post on BJP's win</a>.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi today where he congratulated him, "Narendra, my friend, congratulations! What an enormous victory!" <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElectionResults2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElectionResults2019</a> (Video courtesy: PM of Israel) <a href="https://t.co/5HoPkgv8Mt">pic.twitter.com/5HoPkgv8Mt</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1131598769521168384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In his congratulatory message, Khan said that he looks forward to working with PM Modi "for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia".

"I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan's tweet read. &nbsp;

More than 20 world leaders congratulated PM Modi and he received calls from 13 world leaders - Bangladesh, Bhutan (the king and&nbsp;the PM), Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Japan, Australia, Mauritius, UAE and Israel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi and gave his first address after the party seemed poised to register a landslide win in Lok Sabha polls 2019.

The prime minister promised to devote "every moment" of his life and "every fibre" of his being for the people of India.&nbsp;

"This is a mandate to form new India," PM Modi said in his victory speech.

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&nbsp;

Wishes poured-in from all corners of the world with leaders congratulating PM Modi on registering a thumping victory in the Lok Sabha polls. In a telephonic conversation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also retained another term recently, congratulated Modi and said that the only difference between their respective wins is that while Modi doesn't need a coalition to form the government, Netanyahu does.

Wishes poured-in from all corners of the world with leaders congratulating PM Modi on registering a thumping victory in the Lok Sabha polls. In a telephonic conversation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also retained another term recently, congratulated Modi and said that the only difference between their respective wins is that while Modi doesn't need a coalition to form the government, Netanyahu does. Calling Modi his "friend", Netanyahu said he hopes to meet soon after the government formation in both the countries is over. A video clip of Netanyahu's telephonic conversation with PM Modi was released by news agency ANI. Earlier in the day, Pakistan Prime Minister also tweeted out a congratulatory post on BJP's win. #WATCH: Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi today where he congratulated him, "Narendra, my friend, congratulations! What an enormous victory!" #ElectionResults2019 (Video courtesy: PM of Israel) pic.twitter.com/5HoPkgv8Mt — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2019 × In his congratulatory message, Khan said that he looks forward to working with PM Modi "for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia". "I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan's tweet read. More than 20 world leaders congratulated PM Modi and he received calls from 13 world leaders - Bangladesh, Bhutan (the king and the PM), Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Japan, Australia, Mauritius, UAE and Israel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi and gave his first address after the party seemed poised to register a landslide win in Lok Sabha polls 2019. The prime minister promised to devote "every moment" of his life and "every fibre" of his being for the people of India. "This is a mandate to form new India," PM Modi said in his victory speech. ×

My friend, you don't need a coalition but I do: When Netanyahu congratulated PM Modi in phone call

Palestinians were mostly concerned on Wednesday (April 10) after Israeli election results showed Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured a clear path to reelection.

Palestinians voice concern over Netanyahu win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-looks-to-form-right-wing-government-after-victory-209551">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> who won the April 9 elections in Israel, sworn into the country's new parliament on Tuesday.

He will seek to form a governing coalition in the days ahead.

Netanyahu was among the 120 members of the Knesset, or parliament.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-netanyahus-re-election-impacts-india-israel-relations-211379">How Netanyahu’s re-election impacts India-Israel relations</a>

His&nbsp;Likud won 35 seats out of the Knesset's 120 in the election, the same as his main opponents from the centrist Blue and White alliance, led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz.

But support from smaller right-wing parties allied to Likud led to a majority of 65 parliament members supporting Netanyahu to continue on as premier.

On April 17, President Reuven Rivlin<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-invited-to-form-new-government-in-israel-211343"> tasked Netanyahu with building a government</a>.

He has 28 days to form a government, with a possible extension of a further two weeks.

His support comes mainly from the nationalist right and the ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties.

Meanwhile, the attorney general has announced he intends to indict him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust pending a hearing.

But Netanyahu would be entitled to remain in office until his trial and any subsequent appeals are over.

One potential member of his coalition has said he wants to propose a law that would automatically shield parliament members from prosecution unless lawmakers act to lift it.

(With inputs from AFP)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who won the April 9 elections in Israel, sworn into the country's new parliament on Tuesday. He will seek to form a governing coalition in the days ahead.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who won the April 9 elections in Israel, sworn into the country's new parliament on Tuesday. He will seek to form a governing coalition in the days ahead. Netanyahu was among the 120 members of the Knesset, or parliament. Also read: How Netanyahu’s re-election impacts India-Israel relations His Likud won 35 seats out of the Knesset's 120 in the election, the same as his main opponents from the centrist Blue and White alliance, led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz. But support from smaller right-wing parties allied to Likud led to a majority of 65 parliament members supporting Netanyahu to continue on as premier. On April 17, President Reuven Rivlin tasked Netanyahu with building a government. He has 28 days to form a government, with a possible extension of a further two weeks. His support comes mainly from the nationalist right and the ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties. Meanwhile, the attorney general has announced he intends to indict him for bribery, fraud and breach of trust pending a hearing. But Netanyahu would be entitled to remain in office until his trial and any subsequent appeals are over. One potential member of his coalition has said he wants to propose a law that would automatically shield parliament members from prosecution unless lawmakers act to lift it. (With inputs from AFP)

Netanyahu sworn into Israel's new parliament after election victory

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

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

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

Netanyahu invited to form new government in Israel

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-looks-to-form-right-wing-government-after-victory-209551"> Benjamin Netanyahu</a> on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition.

The Maariv newspaper quoted a senior official as saying that President Reuven Rivlin was trying to convene a meeting between Netanyahu and his defeated centrist challenger Benny Gantz on forming a broad government of national unity.

Such a government would enjoy a comfortable majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament and enable it to take difficult decisions on public spending cuts and the future of controversial military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews free of pressure from special interest groups.

A spokesman for the president's office said he had no word of any plans for such a meeting, when contacted by AFP.

No political party in Israel's more than 70-year history has ever won a majority entirely alone and Netanyahu faces a choice between forming a new coalition of right-wing and religious parties, or a grand alliance with the centre.

Speaking after declaring victory in Tuesday's election, he pledged to form a right-wing government.

But the looming prospect of indictments in several corruption cases against him, which he is determined to fight from office, makes him vulnerable to demands for concessions from smaller party allies.

The final results gave Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party 36 votes, one more than Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance.

It was also one more seat than preliminary results had given to the Likud.

But the United Torah Judaism party representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Jews, won seven seats, one less than in the preliminary results, meaning that the right-wing and religious bloc still commands a total of 65 seats.

The final results confirmed that the newly formed far-right party of two prominent members of the outgoing government, Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, failed to pass the three-per cent threshold required to win seats in parliament.

The poor showing by their New Right party, which had been projected to be a major potential coalition partner, was one of the upsets of the election.

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left Benjamin Netanyahu on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition.

Final results from this week's Israeli election published Friday left Benjamin Netanyahu on course to remain prime minister although there were reports of pressure on him not to form another narrow right-wing coalition. The Maariv newspaper quoted a senior official as saying that President Reuven Rivlin was trying to convene a meeting between Netanyahu and his defeated centrist challenger Benny Gantz on forming a broad government of national unity. Such a government would enjoy a comfortable majority in Israel's 120-seat parliament and enable it to take difficult decisions on public spending cuts and the future of controversial military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews free of pressure from special interest groups. A spokesman for the president's office said he had no word of any plans for such a meeting, when contacted by AFP. No political party in Israel's more than 70-year history has ever won a majority entirely alone and Netanyahu faces a choice between forming a new coalition of right-wing and religious parties, or a grand alliance with the centre. Speaking after declaring victory in Tuesday's election, he pledged to form a right-wing government. But the looming prospect of indictments in several corruption cases against him, which he is determined to fight from office, makes him vulnerable to demands for concessions from smaller party allies. The final results gave Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party 36 votes, one more than Gantz's centrist Blue and White alliance. It was also one more seat than preliminary results had given to the Likud. But the United Torah Judaism party representing Ashkenazi ultra-Orthodox Jews, won seven seats, one less than in the preliminary results, meaning that the right-wing and religious bloc still commands a total of 65 seats. The final results confirmed that the newly formed far-right party of two prominent members of the outgoing government, Education Minister Naftali Bennett and Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, failed to pass the three-per cent threshold required to win seats in parliament. The poor showing by their New Right party, which had been projected to be a major potential coalition partner, was one of the upsets of the election.

Final Israel election results leave Netanyahu on course

It's Often Said That Coalition Governments Cannot Take Tough Decisions Like Dictatorial Regimes Like China. Israel Remains An Exception

Gravitas: Are Coalition Governments always unstable? Israel bucks the trend

Here's What That Went Right For Benjamin Netanyahu In Israel Elections

Gravitas: Israel Elections: What worked in Netanyahu's favour

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

WION CHAT: Daniele Pagani and Dr. Toby Greene on victory of Netanyahu

Israel Elections: PM Narendra Modi congratulates Netanyahu

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that election results handing a narrow victory to right-wing Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu give a "better chance" to a yet to be unveiled US peace plan.

"I'd like to congratulate" Netanyahu, said Trump after nearly complete results put the incumbent premier in position to form a coalition and extend his long tenure.

Trump predicted a boost to his administration's promised plan for a settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "The fact that Bibi won I think we'll see some pretty good action in terms of peace," Trump said.&nbsp;

"Everybody said you can't have peace in the Middle East with Israel and Palestinians. I think we have a chance and I think we now have a better chance," he said.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that election results handing a narrow victory to right-wing Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu give a "better chance" to a yet to be unveiled US peace plan.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that election results handing a narrow victory to right-wing Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu give a "better chance" to a yet to be unveiled US peace plan. "I'd like to congratulate" Netanyahu, said Trump after nearly complete results put the incumbent premier in position to form a coalition and extend his long tenure. Trump predicted a boost to his administration's promised plan for a settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "The fact that Bibi won I think we'll see some pretty good action in terms of peace," Trump said. "Everybody said you can't have peace in the Middle East with Israel and Palestinians. I think we have a chance and I think we now have a better chance," he said.

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

Israel Elects: Will Israeli PM secure 5th Term?

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