Israeli Foreign Minister Resigns over Charges

Accused of breach of trust

Maintaining his innocence and vowing to clear his name, Israel's Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman has resigned just 38 days before the country's national elections after it was revealed he would be indicted on breach of trust charges.

The charges related to allegations that Mr Lieberman used his influence to promote the former Israeli ambassador to Belarus because the ambassador illegally leaked information about an investigation against him.

"Though I know I did nothing wrong, after 16 years of legal proceedings, investigations and wiretaps I have decided to resign from my position as foreign minister and deputy prime minister so I can clear my name without delay," said Mr Lieberman, who is also deputy prime minister in a statement.