Another right-wing politician in Israel has come forward to challenge the Prime Minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, in next year's early elections.

He's Zeev Binyamin Begin, the son of the former prime minister, Menachem Begin.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Begin accused Mr Netanyahu of giving up Jewish land to what he called Palestinian terrorists, adding that Israel could still prevent the creation of a Palestinian state.

Correspondents say Mr Begin lacks a solid power base but his defection from Mr Netanyahu's Likud Party is another blow to the prime minister.

Four other prominent right-wing and centre-right figures have already announced their candidacy for the premiership.

Earlier, the Palestinian leader, Yasser Arafat, accused the Israeli prime minister of using the impending elections as an excuse for freezing the peace process.