Bolivian premier offers to resign amid crippling street protests

BOLIVIAN President Carlos Mesa has offered to resign, his 19-month-old government unravelling amid weeks of protests that have paralysed the capital.

The announcement came after Israel said it would evacuate dozens of young Israelis - mainly backpackers - from La Paz because of the protests.

In a nationally televised address, Mr Mesa said he was submitting his resignation to congress, the second time this year he has offered to step down because of the street demonstrations.