Yisrael Beytenu chief says Gantz must accept president's plan for Netanyahu to serve first as PM and take a leave of absence if indicted. Israel's Basic Law begs to differ

In cabinet meeting, PM accuses Yisrael Beytenu of plotting minority government with Joint List, says his demands are in essence only of Likud, not Blue and White

Party criticizes Netanyahu for picking the 'flavor of the day' as defense chief: Lapid: Premier giving 'system responsible for the lives of our kids' to someone he called childish

Move is temporary until new government formed, widely seen as bid to prevent Bennett joining with Blue and White

Blue and White chief says PM's insistence on 'restrictive, obstructive bloc' indicates he's banking on new election; claims talks on other options happening 'behind closed doors'

Finance minister, who doesn't want to run for Knesset again, reportedly seeking to cancel vacation day, keep schools open if Israel goes to another national vote

Tuesday's session marks the third meeting between the parties since Benny Gantz was tasked by president with forming a government

As Gantz blasts Netanyahu for impeding coalition deal, centrist party's negotiators see 'progress' in meeting with Labor on future government's policies

PM gets 40% support in survey compared with 36% for rival, with 24% undecided; option floated in recent days seen as very unlikely

As 3rd elections within a year seem increasingly likely, report claims there has been significant progress in negotiations held through back channel