He had come to power in similar fashion. An 88-member observer team from the Southern African Development Community praised the election for its peace and credibility and high degree of tolerance.

VOA: standard.2009.10.19

Several non IPU member countries have sent observer delegations.

VOA: standard.2009.04.05

Mr Netanyahu froze the transfers last year after the Palestinians gained non-member observer state status at the UN.

BBC: Israel to resume transfer of PA tax revenue

Non-member observer status would give the Palestinians access to bodies such as the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

BBC: UK urges US 'decisive' lead on Mid-East

The General Assembly voted by 138-9 to recognise the Palestinians as a non-member observer state, with 41 states abstaining.

BBC: Israel to build 3,000 settler homes after UN vote