Politicians from across the spectrum criticize the new name. Former Labor MK Eitan Cabel: "It is a party where the decisions are made by one man." Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein: "Democracy begins with democratic procedure within the party." Democrats Abroad Israel head says name is "misleading."
A new Israel Hayom poll conducted this week shows the Likud and Blue and White almost neck-and-neck, with 31 and 30 seats, respectively. If the small right-wing parties run as a single list, they will scoop up 19 seats – but the Right would still be unable to form a government without Avigdor Lieberman.
Petition calling for observant Jew to head national religious faction does not explicitly mention former justice minister by name. Rabbi Shlomo Aviner: No woman should be appointed party head, regardless of religious affiliation.
With Blue and White predicted to win 31 Knesset seats, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman, who has said he will support whichever candidate receives more votes, could be election kingmaker.
Yuli Edelstein releases statement explaining that "not everyone cooperated" with his initiative to cancel the "needless" September do-over election and "save the public billions."
Coalition Chairman Amsalem is slated to replace Ayoub Kara, who resigned from his post last week. Amsalem thanks the prime minister, says the appointment is a "great privilege."
Party blasts Barak as "worst prime minister in Israel's history." Likud MK: Country was in perfect condition before Barak destroyed it during his year and a half as prime minister.
After drawing criticism for saying he would not be former PM Barak's No.2, Labor leader candidate Amir Peretz says he will make every effort to form alliances with the left-wing bloc.
Israel Hayom-i24News poll finds 73% of the public would like to see a unity government formed in lieu of holding a second election. Political insiders say chances of that happening are slim.
At Tel Aviv news conference, Ehud Barak hints at possible alliance with centrist, left-wing parties to defeat Likud. "Netanyahu's regime, with its radical messianic zealots and its corrupt leadership, must be toppled," he says.
