Rivals declare victory in tight election finish

Moderate Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni of Israel’s governing Kadima Party declared victory in a tight race with hawkish Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu.

Ms Livni made her claim in a speech to supporters. She said: “Today the people chose Kadima. ... We will form the next government led by Kadima.”

Earlier, Mr Netanyahu also declared victory. He said he will be Israel’s next prime minister because hardliners outnumber moderates in the incoming parliament.

Under Israel’s electoral system, the party leader most likely to cobble together a governing majority is approached to try to form a coalition.