PM NETANYAHU OPPOSES EARLY ELECTIONS

Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu has said he opposes early elections, as corruption probes linked to him intensify speculation over his future.

Israeli media have raised the possibility of a June poll, with graft investigations potentially weakening the premier's ability to hold together his right-wing coalition.

''There is no reason for that to happen if there is good will,'' Netanyahu said before departing for to the United States late Saturday.

''For me, there is good will. I hope that that the other [coalition] partners also have it.''

Netanyahu will meet US President Donald Trump on Monday at the White House and is set to address pro-Israel lobbying group AIPAC on Tuesday.

Israeli police recommended Netanyahu's indictment in two corruption cases last month and investigations are continuing in others. He and wife Sara were questioned by police on Friday in a third case of alleged graft.

At the same time, there are signs that a split is emerging within his coalition that threatens to pull the government apart.

[AFP]