Even under indictment, the Israeli leader remains a potent figure thanks to his popularity with his party base and the rightward shift of the country, writes Aaron David Miller.
It's a massive blow for the longtime leader — Israel's first sitting prime minister to be indicted. He stands accused of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, and has denied any wrongdoing.
With almost all votes counted, Prime Minister Netanyahu has the best chance of forming a government of right-wing parties. His main challenger has conceded defeat.
The prime minister's move appears to be aimed at galvanizing support among his nationalist base and right-wing political allies before Tuesday's election.
The remark made less than a month before Israeli legislative elections prompted many people — including Israel's president and the star of Wonder Woman — to defend Israel's Palestinian Arab minority.
It's a major blow to the long-serving prime minister, who faces charges that include bribery. However, he still has a chance to hold off any indictment during a court hearing.
As President Trump considers withdrawing from the Iran accord, Israel says files show Iran concealed its nuclear ambitions. But the U.K., France and Germany say they always knew that — hence the deal.
President Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the phone Sunday, in their first talk since the inauguration. Trump has signaled a dramatic shift in policy toward Israel.
The president-elect's comments on Israel, China and nuclear policy also highlight how reactionary comments on social media can immediately spur international concern and attention.