Israel opposition in dramatic split ahead of election

The attorney general is expected to announce his decision on whether to charge Netanyahu in the coming months. The premier would not be required to step down if indicted.

Netanyahu currently leads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israel’s history and says he would like to have a similar coalition after elections.

“I won’t intervene in how the left divides its votes,” he said in a statement after Gabbay’s announcement.

“What’s important to me is that the right forms the next government too, and continues to lead Israel.”