Outgoing defense minister says PM-designate creating 'private army' for Ben Gvir, legitimizing 'de-facto annexation' concerns by granting authority over West Bank to Smotrich

But negotiations with Religious Zionism appear to remain stalled amid numerous disagreements

Netanyahu and Deri said to aim to sign deal by Wednesday night, hoping 'rest of the parties will follow,' but Religious Zionism accuses Likud of trying to 'sideline' them

Likud says the 'public expects' differences to be set aside to quickly form government and fight terror, Smotrich urges Netanyahu to convene party heads

Smotrich's party says Netanyahu backed out of deal on division of portfolios, while latter denies, says PM-designate offered Smotrich to serve as treasury chief for half a term

Either Yoav Kisch or Ofir Akunis said in line for role of Knesset speaker; UTJ reportedly to get Housing Ministry -- one of 7 ministries to be controlled by Haredi parties

Former ally Bitan says party leader 'crossed the line' and was out-negotiated by Deri and Smotrich; Danon says wrong for Shas leader to hold multiple top portfolios

In emerging breakthrough in coalition negotiations, defense portfolio to be held by Netanyahu's party; Shas leader Deri to return to Interior Ministry, TV news says

Labor leader Michaeli slams far-right lawmaker, says incoming government is the real threat to Israel's democracy; Netanyahu defends Smotrich from online abuse from Likud activists

Otzma Yehudit breaks off talks in row over minister spot for periphery regions; Religious Zionism chief Bezalel Smotrich insists on defense ministry portfolio