Netanyahu strings surprise coalition, elections canceled
http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/netanyahu-strings-surprise-coalition-elections-canceled
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu struck a surprise deal with the opposition Kadima party on Tuesday, agreeing to form a national unity government and dropping plans for a snap election.
Under terms of the agreement, Shaul Mofaz, who took over leadership of the center-right Kadima party only six weeks ago, would become deputy prime minister as well as a minister without portfolio in the new cabinet, officials said.
Although the agreement included a pledge to renew the diplomatic process with the Palestinians, little change is expected from the two parties that have continued to expand illegal Jewish settlements while in office and maintain a harsh military occupation of the West Bank and a siege on the Gaza Strip.