Reported request of ultra-Orthodox party apparently aimed at paving way for Liberman to join right-wing government led by incumbent PM

PM gets 40% support in survey compared with 36% for rival, with 24% undecided; option floated in recent days seen as very unlikely

Likud says premier is still aiming for a unity government, though party's Knesset faction chair claimed PM would support a vote for the top spot only

Leader of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party claims Blue and White chairman is interested in President Rivlin's unity compromise, but his No. 2 Yair Lapid is 'torpedoing' plan

Shalom Cohen says a heavenly voice will proclaim Blue and White No. 2, Yisrael Beytenu leader each have a place in the World to Come if they form government with his party

In scathing interview, Yisrael Beytenu leader labels FM Katz 'a pathetic liar,' says PM incapable of friendship and loyalty

Aryeh Deri orders population authority to prepare legal opinion to strip Omar Barghouti of his permanent residency status, after deputy AG gives him go-ahead

Aryeh Deri says Blue and White chief is worthy candidate for PM under rotation deal, claims those close to centrist leader are out to get him

Right-wing and ultra-Orthodox leaders reportedly plan to tell PM that if he commits to folding them into next coalition, they will recommend only him as next premier

Litzman says could consider unity government if it doesn't include Lapid; Deri says it's time to end 'boycotts' and divisive language