Rabbi Rick Jacobs says 'unimaginable' that Otzma Yehudit leader, Bezalel Smotrich of Religious Zionsim will be 'face of modern Israel,' warns Washington officials may not meet them

Baharav-Miara says panel should rule on matter of moral turpitude, rejects argument from Shas and Likud that law only applies to custodial sentences, not suspended

Likud reportedly hopes to temporarily appoint Yariv Levin to role so parliament can pass controversial override law; Religious Zionism says it hasn't been asked about plan

Hady Amr says US expects Israel to advance promised projects to boost Palestinian economy, days after Shin Bet chief warned Netanyahu Abbas-led government could fall

Outgoing finance minister says Likud leader also seeking to cut Ben Gvir and Smotrich down to size, take control of judge-appointing committee

Baharav-Miara said to tell Netanyahu approval needed from Central Elections Committee; Ben Gvir's Otzma Yehudit, Smotrich's Religious Zionism say will operate separately in Knesset

Rabbi Chaim Druckman insists individual private rights wouldn't be harmed, but conversion would only be allowed according to Orthodox standards and buses wouldn't run on Sabbath

PM-designate's hopes of new government by middle of next week seem unlikely, as Smotrich said to insist on defense portfolio, Ben Gvir demands transportation or education

Nides doesn't mention far-right MK by name but urges PM-designate to consider appointment carefully; Religious Zionism responds by telling US to respect Israeli democracy

After politicians sit down for coalition talks, PM-designate's party also says deal reached to legalize many West Bank outposts within 60 days of government being formed