Netanyahu said to promise NIS 3 billion a year for ultra-Orthodox education to ensure joint run of Ashkenazi Haredi parties in UTJ; Meretz still willing to merge with Labor

State Department says Rob Malley leading US effort on Iran, again rebuffing source in Lapid delegation who claimed Israel managed to sideline him

State Department says it is not being 'prescriptive' in talks with Israeli officials on seeking accountability for Shireen Abu Akleh's killing, backtracking from previous comments

PM Lapid says he still keeps former British chief rabbi's book close; Herzog hails his writings as a 'fountain of strength, originality'

PM's party retains many of its 26 sitting politicians in realistic spots, not adding any heavy hitters; Lapid says Netanyahu sold out Haredi children's futures

Citing security official, Kan says PM briefed on the matter ahead of Jewish High Holidays

Amid PM's efforts for a joint electoral list, Labor leader says 'it's time to start working together to fight against the real opponent'

State Department refutes several assertions by senior Israeli official who briefed reporters after PM's visit to Berlin, rejects claim that Israel managed to sideline Rob Malley

PM offers support to Shoshana Trister, accompanies her off plane with German honor guard below; premier's delegation on state visit to Germany includes 5 survivors, families

PM mediates deal to prepare to shorten shifts to 16 hours in outlying area, though all hospitals given go-ahead now if they can