JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed a “huge win” in a vote that challenged his leadership of the Likud party.
Party figures show that around 49% of Likud’s 116,000 eligible members voted on Thursday.
Challenger Gideon Saar conceded defeat, saying he would now back Netanyahu in general election slated for March.
The internal party vote was seen as a test of Netanyahu’s hold on power at a time of mounting difficulties.
Netanyahu, 70, faces trial on bribery and corruption charges, as well as a third national election within a year.
Previous elections held in April and September saw Likud deadlocked with the centrist Blue and White party – with neither able to form a government.
(Agencies)
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