JERUSALEM (AP) — Barring a devastating legal ruling against him in a series of corruption allegations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looks to be cruising toward re-election and a historic fifth term in office after the upcoming April 9 vote. Israel briefly experimented with direct elections for prime minister in the 1990s but quickly reverted back to voting for parties, rather than individuals. CURRENT PLAYERSRegardless of the fragmentation on the right, Netanyahu remains its only viable candidate for prime minister. Also waiting in the wings is former Prime Minister Ehud Barak, who has been advocating for a large merger between anti-Netanyahu forces. The prime minister himself seems to be observing the unfolding drama with glee.

Source: Egypt Independent January 04, 2019 13:41 UTC