Netanyahu gets boost for Israel PM

Israel's opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu's chances of becoming prime minister improve significantly with the backing of a far-right party.

Israeli opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu could be a step closer to becoming Prime Minister.

He's won the backing of the leader of the far-right Yisrael Beiteinu party.

Ultranationalist Avigdor Leiberman made major gains in elections last week.

But his support doesn't come without conditions.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) LEADER OF 'YISRAEL BEITEINU' FACTION AVIGDOR LIEBERMAN SAYING:

"Our main target today to establish unity government of three biggest parties. We gave a recommendation for Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister, but it must be a unity government of three parties. Likud, Kadima and Yisraeli Beiteinu."

So far, Kadima leader and foreign minister Tzipi Livni has ruled out joining a coalition.

President Shimon Peres now has to decide whether to task Netanyahu or Livni with forming a government.

An inconclusive general election on February 10, saw Kadima beat Likud by 28 seats to 27 in the 120-member parliament.

Both parties laid claim to the premiership.

Typically, the party with most seats forms the government.

But with Lieberman on its side, Likud now has a bloc of 65 legislators.

Enough to weaken Livni's chances of becoming Prime Minister.

And, enough for a narrow, governing majority of right-wing and religious parties.

Sarah Barden, Reuters.