Development comes after fellow Yamina MK Smotrich voices opposition; remark by religious politician, who has made dramatic poll gains, is slammed as a 'shame' by LGBT rights group

MK says he believes 'in a Jewish state, not just as a label but in practical content'; says he and the party leader try to focus on the 'huge amount' they have in common

PM goes after right-wing rival for backing no-confidence measure in him; meanwhile, Likud coalition chief vows to tone down his inflammatory statements lest his party 'pay a price'

The PM has clung to power by forging a tight coalition of rightists and Haredim, but Haredim now openly defy and condemn him, and most Yamina voters want him out of politics

Right-wing leader, who has gained popularity as government flounders in COVID-19 battle, to remain at Sheba Medical Center until results of tests come back

Netanyahu’s Likud blasts Yamina head for supporting measure, calls him a ‘conniver’; Yamina says ruling party should focus on virus fight, ‘not more third-rate spin’

Ascendant Yamina leader accuses PM of lying to Israeli public over pandemic management, pummels him for 'taking pride' in second lockdown

Yamina No. 2 says new elections would save country more money than they cost by preventing further government failure to deal with the coronavirus

Survey also finds that if popular Likud MK Yifat Shasha-Biton ran her own party, she could win up to eight seats, although she has given no sign she plans to do so

Survey gives Likud 31 seats; Netanyahu still seen as best-suited to be PM, but respondents report deep dissatisfaction with his handling of pandemic