Israeli defense minister steps down

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israel's defense minister officially stepped down on Sunday, capping a tumultuous week of politics that is expected to result in the replacement of the former military chief with an inexperienced hard-liner in the sensitive post.

Yaalon, like Netanyahu, is a security hawk who was deeply skeptical of peace prospects with the Palestinians and led the military through a 50-day war against Islamic militants in the Gaza Strip in 2014.

At an appearance with the visiting Czech prime minister, Netanyahu described himself as an experienced former army commando who remains in charge of security.

The men clashed following the fatal shooting of a wounded Palestinian attacker by an Israeli soldier caught on video last March.

Speaking to his Cabinet Sunday, Netanyahu said he was committed to pursuing peace with the Palestinians, in an apparent attempt to ease concerns over Lieberman's arrival.

Peace talks have ground to a standstill since Netanyahu took office in 2009 due to the large gaps between him and the Palestinians over virtually all key issues.