Amid growing speculation that he may seek to serve another term, President Shimon Peres has announced they he plans to step down at the end of his term, which expires in July 2014. Mr. Peres made his statement to reporters on a state visit to Mexico. He explained despite the growing speculation, he does not plan to seek another term and he opposes any and all efforts to amend the law to permit him to do so.

According to a Yisrael Hayom report, the president stated that he has not plan to continue and he does not plan to reenter Knesset or political life. “I plan to continue serving the nation in non-political ways” the president is quoted saying.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)