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Former Civil Service Commissioner Hershkowitz Withdraws from State Comptroller Race, Shifting Political Dynamics

Former Civil Service Commissioner Hershkowitz Withdraws from State Comptroller Race, Shifting Political Dynamics

Daniel Hershkowitz, the former Civil Service Commissioner, has announced his withdrawal from the race for the position of State Comptroller in Israel. This development leaves the competition between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attorney, Michael Rabilo, and former Supreme Court Justice Yosef Elron. The race has seen significant political maneuvering, with five coalition Members of Knesset (MKs) revoking their recommendation for Rabilo, including MK Eli Dellal, who initially gathered support from 10 MKs for Rabilo. In contrast, MK Merav Ben-Ari from Yesh Atid and the Together Party has expressed support for Elron, praising his integrity and hard work. The Likud party, however, is reportedly backing Rabilo, with Ben-Ari criticizing the party for its loyalty to its leader rather than advancing qualified individuals.

Explainer-Israeli vote to dissolve parliament may bring elections forward

Explainer-Israeli vote to dissolve parliament may bring elections forward

By Maayan Lubell JERUSALEM, May 20 (Reuters) - Israel's parliament is expected to vote on Wednesday on a bill to dissolve itself, potentially bringing forward by a few weeks the next national election, which surveys predict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will lose. WHEN IS THE BALLOT?

Israel takes step toward snap election as Knesset votes to dissolve

Israel takes step toward snap election as Knesset votes to dissolve

JERUSALEM, May 20 (Reuters) - Israel moved closer on Wednesday to a snap election after lawmakers gave an initial nod to dissolve parliament, with opinion polls showing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would lose the first national vote since the 2023 Hamas attacks.

Knesset Faces Potential Dissolution Amid Netanyahu's Coalition Crisis Over Draft Exemptions

Knesset Faces Potential Dissolution Amid Netanyahu's Coalition Crisis Over Draft Exemptions

The Israeli Knesset is poised to hold a preliminary vote on dissolving itself, a move that could lead to early elections. This development arises from a coalition crisis faced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, primarily due to disagreements over military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox men. The ultra-Orthodox parties have demanded elections, citing the government's failure to advance legislation that would exempt yeshiva students from military service. Netanyahu is attempting to secure support for the draft bill or persuade undecided coalition lawmakers to abstain. However, several lawmakers, including members of Netanyahu's Likud Party and the ultra-Orthodox United Torah Judaism alliance, oppose the legislation, arguing it would harm yeshiva students. The timing of potential elections remains uncertain, with Netanyahu favoring a late October date, while ultra-Orthodox parties push for September.

Lahav 433 Officers Question Journalists in 'Qatargate' Corruption Investigation

Lahav 433 Officers Question Journalists in 'Qatargate' Corruption Investigation

Investigators from Lahav 433, Israel's National Crime Unit, have summoned three journalists to provide testimony in the ongoing 'Qatargate' investigation. This inquiry is focused on alleged efforts to influence public relations messaging about Qatar through journalists. The journalists, Itamar Eichner from Yediot Aharonot, Amir Bohbot from Walla, and Amichai Stein from i24 and The Jerusalem Post, were questioned regarding their connections with Eli Feldstein, a former advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a central suspect in the case. The investigation is examining whether aides in Netanyahu's circle were involved in a campaign to improve Qatar's image in Israel, potentially crossing into criminal conduct. The case also involves allegations of illicit payments from Qatari-linked sources to promote pro-Qatari messaging, with charges under consideration including bribery and money laundering.

Tankers exit Hormuz as Trump, Vance talk up Iran deal prospects

Tankers exit Hormuz as Trump, Vance talk up Iran deal prospects

By Florence Tan and Humeyra Pamuk SINGAPORE/WASHINGTON, May 20 (Reuters) - Two Chinese tankers laden with oil exited the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, shipping data showed, brightening hopes that the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran may soon be resolved after positive comments from the U.S.

Iran says peace proposal includes reparations for war damage, US troop withdrawal

Iran says peace proposal includes reparations for war damage, US troop withdrawal

DUBAI, May 19 (Reuters) - Tehran's latest peace proposal to the United States involves ending hostilities on all fronts including Lebanon, the exit of U.S. forces from areas close to Iran, and reparations for destruction caused by the U.S.-Israeli war, state media reported on Tuesday.

Israeli Government Allocates NIS 2 Billion to Combat Hezbollah Drone Threat

Israeli Government Allocates NIS 2 Billion to Combat Hezbollah Drone Threat

The Israeli government has allocated NIS 2 billion from the Defense Ministry's budget to address the threat posed by Hezbollah's fiber-optic drones. These drones have been responsible for the deaths of three soldiers and a civilian in the past month, with many more injured. The drones are particularly challenging to counter due to their immunity to communications jamming and advanced electronic warfare, making them a significant threat not only in Lebanon but also in other regions like Ukraine. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are currently testing multiple solutions, including equipping combat units with wire mesh to disrupt the drones' effectiveness. The decision to allocate this budget was made during a discussion chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting the urgency of finding a solution to this growing threat.

Netanyahu Coalition Faces Internal Pressure Over Haredi Draft Bill

Netanyahu Coalition Faces Internal Pressure Over Haredi Draft Bill

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition is experiencing internal pressure as it attempts to pass a controversial haredi draft bill. Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, a critic of the bill, has highlighted the coalition's efforts to pressure lawmakers into supporting the legislation. The bill, which aims to address the conscription of haredi individuals, is seen as a potential threat to Israel's security due to its failure to enforce conscription and address the IDF's manpower shortage. The bill is scheduled for discussion in the Knesset, with significant opposition from within the coalition. Haskel has formed a 'bloc of resilience' to oppose the bill, arguing that it could harm state security.

Lebanon death toll reaches 3,000 in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah

Lebanon death toll reaches 3,000 in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah

The death toll in the latest fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has surpassed 3,000

Israel's Education Minister Faces Criticism for Withholding Poor Test Scores

Israel's Education Minister Faces Criticism for Withholding Poor Test Scores

Israel's Education Minister is under scrutiny for allegedly attempting to conceal poor performance results from nationwide standardized tests. Only 3% of ninth graders met the science standards set by the Education Ministry, with over half failing the exam. Similarly, only 37% and 36% of sixth graders met the standards in math and English, respectively. The English test for ninth graders also showed poor results, with only 20% meeting the standard. These figures have sparked criticism of the education system's effectiveness, yet the government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has been accused of avoiding responsibility and transparency regarding these educational shortcomings.

President Trump Delays Decision on Renewed Strikes Amid Iran Tensions

President Trump Delays Decision on Renewed Strikes Amid Iran Tensions

President Trump is reportedly considering renewed military action against Iran due to frustrations over Iran's nuclear ambitions and tactics. Intelligence officials suggest that Iran is employing a strategy of deception and delay, hoping to complicate any potential military response from the U.S. Trump recently discussed the situation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, indicating that a decision on military action is still pending. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates reported intercepting drones, with one striking near the Barakah nuclear power plant, highlighting regional tensions. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with Iran maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy passage.