Israel's election - will Netanyahu survive?

For the second time in less than six months Israelis are heading back to the polls in an election re-run.

It could see Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu win a record fifth term - or end his decade-long dominance of Israeli politics.

He faces formidable challengers and still has possible criminal charges in three corruption cases hanging over him.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU CUTTING OFF MEDIA QUESTION, SAYING TO TRUMP:

"Mr. President I wanted to tell you that I brought you a case of the finest wine from the Golan. I understand you are not a great wine drinker but could I give it to your staff?

TRUMP: "Yes, you can."

NETANYAHU: And hope they don't open an investigation on that."

Latest polls show a race that's too close to call.

But no party in Israel has ever won an outright majority.

This makes post-election coalitions the key to victory, and negotiations can stretch on for weeks.

Netanyahu failed to get the seats six months ago.

He'll be hoping this time his party, Lukid, together with the three right-wing and religious parties that support him win a majority.

But if he faces a stalemate again Netanyahu could go outside his block and form a so called "national unity" government.

The problem there is that those that are not his natural allies might not play ball.

That includes his most serious rival, former military Chief of Staff, Benny Gantz.

If Netenayhu comes up short in coalition talks his own party could oust him, paving the way for a coalition between Lukid and Gantz's Blue and White party.

If the centre and left-wing parties get a majority themselves - Gantz would be the one to head a government.

That could see a real shift in Israeli politics with a left leaning coalition likely to pursue peace talks with the Palestinians and be more accepting of the nuclear deal struck between world powers and Iran.

There's also the kingmaker to consider - according to polls it's the hawkish ex-defence minister Avigdor Lieberman - who could double his seats.

He's something of a wild card and has been known to make unpredictable moves.

Of course, there's always a chance that no candidate can form a government and Israelis could see themselves heading to the polls for the third time this year.