Israeli opp closes in on Netanyahu ouster

JERUSALEM:

Israel's opposition on Friday reported progress in efforts to end Benjamin Netanyahu's rule after a key opposition leader softened his opposition to an alliance with ultra-Orthodox parties, potentially opening a path out of the country's post-election political deadlock.

Former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu's main rival, said negotiations had produced significant breakthroughs, expressing confidence that President Isaac Herzog would nominate him to form a government when he announces his decision on Sunday.

Eisenkot secured the backing of 67 lawmakers in consultations with Herzog, compared with 46 who endorsed Netanyahu. However, the president said competing demands and mutual vetoes within the political blocs made the outcome uncertain.

The breakthrough came after opposition leader Avigdor Liberman, who had campaigned against exemptions from military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews, signalled his willingness to negotiate with their political representatives.