Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert's government survived a no-confidence vote in parliament today, but politicians from his Labour Party coalition partner dealt him a moral blow by voting against him.
Under Israeli law, the government must be dissolved if 61
parliament members vote in favour of a no-confidence motion. The motion against Mr Olmert was defeated by 47 votes to 42.
The outcome sparked speculation about whether Mr Olmert, who is under fire on allegations of fraud, would dismiss Labour ministers who voted no-confidence, as he had threatened.
Such a step would would leave him without a legislative majority and open the door to an early election.
Mr Olmert is enmeshed in a graft scandal that could force him to step down. His Kadima party will hold an internal vote in September that could replace him.
The veteran politician has denied any wrongdoing but says he will resign if indicted.