Exchanges aired by networks show Netanyahu hurling accusations at Gantz over lockdown extension, defense minister fighting back, in mudslinging apparently aimed at potential voters

Initial surveys after closing of official slates for March elections see both Netanyahu and his opponents short of majority; several parties in danger of falling below threshold

An initial decision, opposed by Blue and White, was ruled invalid by AG Mandelblit, leading Netanyahu to accuse Gantz of 'condemning many to terrible death'; a compromise followed

Blue and White party has been objecting to Health Ministry plan to add 3 more days of closure followed by gradual easing of restrictions; ministers approve doubling fines

Diaspora affairs minister announces departure from Gantz's Blue and White party, citing 'growing uneasiness' and saying she faced 'defamation campaign'; won't run in March election

In an apparent stunt, Gantz lets the order enabling ultra-Orthodox to avoid army service lapse, but expert says status quo likely to continue, because Knesset dissolved in December

Schools open in Bnei Brak, Jerusalem despite increased fines; Finance Minister Katz calls for commerce to restart as soon as lockdown ends

Defense minister says any future war would involve Hezbollah and Hamas targeting Israeli cities and Israel in turn hitting missile stores in civilian areas

At late-night cabinet meeting, Netanyahu and Gantz spar over rules before reaching compromise on prolonging the nationwide closure, already in its 4th week

Gantz, Lapid, Sa'ar and Liberman accuse government of selectively enforcing lockdown as10,000 join ultra-Orthodox burial procession