Israeli President formally appoints Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister

On Wednesday, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin formally handed Benjamin Netanyahu his letter of appointment to start building a new government following last week's general election.

President Rivlin told Netanyahu that in consultations with all parties elected to the incoming 120-seat parliament only 65 MPs recommended you.

On Monday and Tuesday, Rivlin had sounded out delegations from political parties. Only 45 members supported his main rivals from the Blue and White alliance led by ex-military chief Benny Gantz with the 10 members of the Arab parties recommending nobody.

"This is the fifth time I am taking on the task of putting together the government of Israel. I am well aware of the size of the responsibility placed upon my shoulders and shall act as the envoy of all of the people those who voted for me and those who did not", Netanyahu said.

Then Netanyahu pledged to serve all Israelis, opponents as well as supporters.

He now has 28 days to form a new government, with a possible extension of a further two weeks.

British Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted, "Congratulations to PM Netanyahu on being asked to form a new Israeli government".