I think early elections will work against Netanyahu, but he doesn't believe so, so that is all that matters. Looks like Obama may have a new colleague in January/February with whom to kick around ideas.

And who would be the likely next PM, in that case?

Unknown to most of this board, save a few who are actually interested in Israel for something more than an "bad guy," there is quite a bit of economic strife. Many are quite pissed with the saber-rattling being done when nothing is being done about the economic problems and concerns. There is also a growing animosity toward the settlers, whereas most in Israel usually ignore their antics and them, as of late (past year and a half) their escalating violence has made things worse for the common Israeli.

As for the next PM, I have no clue. I don't know that Livini would try again, but I wouldn't be surprised either. The left is not strong enough to vete a candidate, I don't think. If anything, it is likely to be a moderate to left person. But first we have to see if this going to happen. He has said this before. My money is he is waiting on the results of our election before a set decision is made.

...Let's hope the stranglehold of some of the far right parties can be broken in a next governing coalition...

And Bibi needs to be permanently set aside for a real leader.

Bibi is like a bad version of George W.

He was doing "meh." But I don't think he is doing well, which makes this announcement strange IMO.

He's being cut off like the proverbial tail that tried to wag-the-dog. Hopefully, Likud will also get clipped.

Your coalition has collapsed, as predicted.

Move aside, asshole, and you won't get hurt.

Likud needs to be a permanent 1% minority.

Also, Avigdor Lieberman needs to go to prison.