Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is being challenged for the leadership of his party in what is seen as a test of his hold on power. He is facing long-term rival Gideon Saar in internal Likud party elections.

Although Mr Netanyahu is expected to win, it comes at a time of mounting difficulties for the veteran leader. He faces trial on bribery and corruption charges, as well as a third national election within a year after two inconclusive results.

The prime minister still has solid support in Likud, but this is the most serious internal challenge he has faced in a decade of power and shows cracks in the party's united front, our correspondent says.

There was a moment of drama at a campaign rally in the southern city of Ashkelon on Wednesday night when Mr Netanyahu was ushered off stage by bodyguards after an air raid siren warning of rocket fire from Gaza sounded.

It was the second time that Mr Netanyahu, who styles himself as the person who can best bring security to Israel, has been forced to take cover during a campaign rally, following a similar incident in September.
As polls opened on Thursday, Mr Saar said the time was ripe for change.