Netanyahu brings on 2nd coalition partner

The ultra-Orthodox Jewish Shas party has reached a coalition deal with Israeli prime minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu, bringing the right-wing leader closer to forming a government.

Shas signed the agreement Monday to become second partner in the Likud-led coalition.

Last week, the Yisrael Beitenu party led by ultra-nationalist Avigdor Lieberman signed on. The centre-left Labour party is set to vote Tuesday on whether to join.

Netanyahu has until April 3 to form a government following the Feb. 10 election. So far he has reached agreements with parties that hold 53 of parliament's 120 seats.

Netanyahu has tried to bring in Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni's centrist Kadima party. However, she has declined because he hasn't stated a commitment to negotiate the establishment of a Palestinian state.