Likud Coalition Chairman David Bitan, known nationwide for his loyalty to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has tossed in the towel.
Bitan submitted a letter of resignation on Wednesday, telling the prime minister that he could no longer function as coalition chairman.
“The current situation makes it too difficult for me to function,” he wrote, “and I don’t want to harm the work and functionality of the coalition.
“I thank the prime minister for his trust and support,” Bitan continued. “I will continue to serve respectfully as Likud Knesset member and do all I can do to continue to serve the public.”
The move is unconnected to questioning taking place into allegations of corruption by the prime minister.
Bitan is under investigation by police over accusations of bribery that allegedly took place during his time as deputy mayor of Rishon LeTzion prior to the start of his career as a member of Knesset.
The MK said, however, that he intends to remain in his position in the country’s parliament.