Currently Online 
Governing parties reportedly back preliminary vote to dissolve Israel’s Knesset
Israel’s Knesset is expected to hold a preliminary vote on a bill that could dissolve the parliament, a move that could pave the way for new elections, as divisions deepen within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition.
The bill has been put forward by opposition parties who say the current government has lost its legitimacy and ability to govern.
Two ultra-Orthodox parties in Netanyahu’s coalition, United Torah Judaism and Shas, have indicated they may back the opposition’s motion, amid growing anger over efforts to enforce military conscription for Haredi Jews.
However, even if the bill to dissolve the Knesset passes its initial reading, it must still clear three further votes in the full plenum to become law, a process that could take weeks and offers room for a potential compromise between coalition partners.
Sources cited by Israeli newspaper Haaretz say the bill is unlikely to proceed unless it is clear in advance that it has majority support.
Israeli corruption case halts suddenly after Netanyahu claims he feels unwell
The session lasted about an hour before being adjourned. A doctor was called to examine the prime minister, and proceedings were suspended by agreement between the judges and lawyers.
Testimony began on Tuesday morning and is being held behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of the information involved.
Benjamin Netanyahu is currently on trial in Case 1000, one of several corruption cases in which he faces charges. This particular case focuses on his relationship with two billionaires, Australian businessman James Packer and Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan.
Prosecutors allege that Netanyahu received lavish gifts from the pair, including champagne, cigars, and jewellery, in exchange for political favours. The trial is expected to resume next week.
