Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Benny Gantz are jostling over the terms of a unity government, after the country’s second election in a year ended in deadlock.
Local media say both men’s parties failed to win enough votes on Tuesday to build a coalition with a majority.
Mr Netanyahu urged Mr Gantz to start negotiations on a joint administration.
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Mr Gantz rebuffed the idea, calling it spin. He said he wanted a unity government – but only one led by him.
His party has ruled out joining a coalition led by Mr Netanyahu, who faces possible corruption charges.
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