ISRAEL: The nation's political scene has been shaken by defence minister Ehud Barak suddenly quitting politics just weeks ahead of a general election.

Mr Barak, a decorated ex-general and former prime minister, said he would stay on in his post until a new government is formed after the January 22 vote.

He said: "I didn't make this decision without hesitating, but I made it wholeheartedly."

Mr Barak's resignation could mean the departure of the most moderating influence on hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is expected to retain his job after the election.

Mr Barak added: "I feel I have exhausted my political activity."

The 70-year-old and Mr Netanyahu had reportedly fallen out over whether to defer to the US on any attack against Iranian nuclear facilities.