The left-wing Meretz Party has established a committee to probe the party’s failure in the general election.

**The High Court on Monday is expected to rule on a petition filed by Avigdor Lieberman, demanding Attorney General Menachem Mazuz close an investigation against him that began in 2006. Mazuz is calling on the court to reject the petition, explaining the investigation is complex, involves other countries, and demands the time, adding he cannot say when the investigation will be completed.

**Israel reports Hamas’ chief of staff is negotiating in Cairo with Israeli representatives towards a deal to release prisoners.

**The High Court on Monday rejected a petition filed by the Israel Religious Action Center to compel Attorney General Mazuz to file charges against Tzfas Chief Rabbi Shmuel Eliyahu Shlita, who made disparaging remarks against Arabs. The court stated it does not make a habit of overruling the attorney general, who the court stated, worked out an arrangement with the rabbi, who issued an apology in the matter.

**Ohf Ha’emek employees protested outside Knesset on Monday morning.

**Bank of Israel officials announced distribution of bonuses up to NIS 25,000 to employees has been canceled due to mounting public opinion in light of economic crisis.

**Israel Police: Sunday night fatal attack in Jordan Valley not connected to the IDF’s removal of Shechem area checkpoints.

**Since taking office, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat has ordered the demolition of 34 illegal Arab buildings in eastern areas of the capital.

**Consumer Price Index fell in January 0.1%. This represents the fourth consecutive month in which the CPI fell.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)