Ehud Barak Announces He Is to Quit Politics

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barack announced Monday that he is to retire from politics and would not run in January's general elections.

"I have decided to retire from political life and not to run for the next Knesset," Barak told a news conference in Jerusalem, as cited by RIA Novosti.

Barak, who served as prime minister from 1999 to 2001, said he wanted to spend more time with his family and take up writing.

He said he would keep his current post until a new government is formed following the January 22 election.

Barak has announced his decision to retire despite opinion polls showing increased support for his Atzmaut (Independence)party following this month's Gaza offensive.

BBC has noted that Barak believes this month's military offensive on Gaza was a successful note on which to end a long career in Israel's military and political establishment.