As Israel edges closer to snap polls, Yisrael Beytenu chief says his demand to pass draft law is 'not caprice, not ego and not revenge, but a foundation-stone of our platform'

Netanyahu and Esther Hayut urge 'respectful dialogue' between Knesset and legal system, toning down fiery rhetoric from ruling party in favor of limiting court's powers

Premier reportedly doing all he can to avoid snap polls, 24 hours before deadline; even if deal reached, lack of time will likely force him to hand URWP's Smotrich justice ministry

Addressing Likud secretariat before it votes to approve Kulanu merger, premier says that ‘the clearer it is that we are going to elections, the more likely it is that we won't’

Security guards stop man declaring he wants to see the prime minister; suspect handed over to police for questioning

As Netanyahu struggles to make progress, president rebuffs pleas to task another lawmaker with forming a government, notes Knesset has the right to dissolve, call fresh elections

Kahlon, formerly of the ruling party, to get 4 slots on slate in move infuriating some Likud MKs; premier's rivals within party prevented from leading faction if snap election held

Trump administration officials, currently in Morocco, will meet Netanyahu; they will also try to persuade Rabat, Amman to support Bahrain workshop

What about SodaStream's alchemist Daniel Birnbaum, or inspirational matriarch Marie Nahmias for PM? No, I'm not being serious. But then again, neither is Netanyahu

Deal would give Moshe Kahlon four seats on right-wing party's slate, prompting speculation of revolt by Likud back-benchers, who may refuse to dissolve 21st Knesset