But defense minister also reportedly urges local leaders not to criticize senior officers; troops launch manhunt for Palestinian who opened fire at settlers, causing no injuries

PM calls comments against central command head 'unacceptable and unworthy' after member of his party accuses officer of putting Palestinians before Israelis

Limor Son Har-Melech claims defense minister 'knowingly endangers' the lives of settlers; opposition leaders defend Central Command chief, urge Netanyahu to stand up for military

Military chief Herzi Halevi 'forcefully condemns' Avichay Buaron, who refuses to retract comments and says it's his right to criticize the Central Command head

Archaeological complex including church and colorful mosaic may have been built to memorialize biblical Hannah, mother of prophet Samuel, says Israel Antiquities Authority

Military's designation means groups' offices can be shuttered, members arrested; move comes despite ongoing international criticism

If the scheduled vote is delayed, the PA might face rising popular anger. If it goes forward, Hamas could surge to victory. Is a distracted Israel ready for any of this?

Pnina Sharvit Baruch led the unit that handles Israel's rights and responsibilities in the West Bank. The PM's plan, she says, could make everything, including building, harder

Military also replaces senior naval officer who resigned amid allegations of illicit sexual relationships with subordinates