Netanyahu's Likud wins Israeli election
Updated: 2015-03-18 14:49
(Agencies/Xinhua)
|
|||||||||||
Likud party supporters listen to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (not pictured) deliver a speech in Tel Aviv March 18, 2015.[Photo/Agencies] |
Outlook on US-Israeli ties
Netanyahu's return to power likely spells trouble for Mideast peace efforts and could further escalate tensions with the United States.
Netanyahu, who already has a testy relationship with President Barack Obama, took a sharp turn to the right in the final days of the campaign, staking out a series of hard-line positions that will put him at odds with the international community.
In a dramatic policy reversal, he said he now opposes the creation of a Palestinian state _ a key policy goal of the White House and the international community. He also promised to expand construction in Jewish areas of east Jerusalem, the section of the city claimed by the Palestinians as their capital.
Netanyahu infuriated the White House early this month when he delivered a speech to the US Congress criticizing an emerging nuclear deal with Iran. The speech was arranged with Republican leaders and not coordinated with the White House ahead of time.
In Washington, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Obama was confident strong US-Israeli ties would endure far beyond the election regardless of the victor.
Netanyahu focused his campaign on security issues, while his opponents instead pledged to address the country's high cost of living and accused the leader of being out of touch with everyday people.
Related Stories
Netanyahu claims victory in parliamentary elections
2015-03-18 09:00
Rightwing Israelis rally in support of Netanyahu before elections 2015-03-16 09:26
Netanyahu assails Iran-nuclear talks; Obama disagrees 2015-03-04 05:06
Obama, Netanyahu clash over Iran diplomacy 2015-03-03 10:15
US-Israel ties face tough test over Netanyahu's planned speech 2015-03-02 16:38
Nearly half of Americans disapprove of inviting Netanyahu to address Congress 2015-03-02 11:28
Today's Top News
Chinese firm takes stake in French airport
Putin slams attempts to rewrite WWII history
EU police group launches team to tackle migrant smugglers
Britain needs oil tax cuts to attract North Sea investment
More European countries to join AIIB
Putin puts an end to rumors
Norway launches a massive military exercise
No more soldier prince: UK's Harry to leave army in June
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Festival Special: Apps that make holiday shopping easier |
Listed firms caught in anti-corruption net |
Conca set to return to China |
CES: Spotlight on Chinese gadgets |
Yearender: What happened around the globe in 2014 |