IN a ruling late Wednesday, Israel’s Supreme Court refused to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a government, clearing the last major obstacle to his claiming a record fifth term as Israel’s leader.

The high court unanimously rejected petitions that sought to disqualify Netanyahu because he faces prosecution on felony corruption charges, ruling that it had no legal grounds to do so.

The court also declined to block an unusual power-sharing arrangement that Netanyahu struck with Benny Gantz, the former army chief who had fought him to a draw in three straight elections. The rivals ultimately joined forces, citing the emergency posed by the coronavirus pandemic and the desire to avoid a fourth campaign.

The court’s demurral allows Netanyahu to be sworn in for a fourth straight term, his fifth total, cementing his reputation as a political wizard and indomitable survivor: Even after his opponents won a majority in the most recent election, even with a criminal trial weeks away, it was Netanyahu who was left on top and in charge.

Netanyahu, 70, whose trial on bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges is set to begin May 24, immediately announced he would take the oath of office May 13. Gantz, 60, is to take office as deputy or alternate prime minister.

The two agreed to swap roles after 18 months, though that timing, the agreement’s duration and other issues were still being debated in a marathon legislative session that continued into Thursday morning.

Analysts had predicted Wednesday night’s decision, saying that the Supreme Court would be reluctant to interfere in the electoral process.

Since Israel has no Constitution, little stands in the way of attacks on the court except its own legitimacy in the eyes of the public.(SD-Agencies)