Netanyahu moves out of PM’s residence after 12 years

Tel Aviv: The family was having their final Shabbat at the house on Saturday evening and would be leaving later that night.

Israel's former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family have completed their departure from the Prime Minister's Residence in Jerusalem, vacating the house on Balfour Street after 12 years, according to local media reports on early Sunday.

Times of Israel reported that moving trucks were seen at the residence earlier this week.

On Friday, there were reports that several vehicles were seen departing the residence — cars belonging to Netanyahu's motorcade as opposition leader.

The family was having their final Shabbat at the house on Saturday evening and would be leaving later that night. While on the other media, however, reported that the Netanyahu spent Shabbat at their Caesarea home and would only complete their departure from Balfour Street late Saturday night or early Sunday.

The Netanyahus left the Jerusalem residence overnight Saturday-Sunday. However, the authorities did not immediately confirm the information.

Netanyahu's departure comes nearly a month after he was ousted from power, in line with an agreement he reached with new Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.

On June 13, right-wing nationalist and former tech entrepreneur Naftali Bennett was sworn in as the country's new prime minister.

It is the first time in 12 years, someone other than Netanyahu will lead the country.

Courtesy: ANI