The outspoken,larger than life, Israeli Foreign Minister, Avigdor Lieberman has announced he is resigning after being charged with fraud and breach of trust, in a move that could have repercussions on the upcoming general electionon January 22 next year.

His resignation follows the announcement yesterday from Israel's justice ministry that it would charge Lieberman over alleged irregularities tied to the promotion of an Israeli diplomat who had leaked him privileged information about a police probe into his activities. However the more serious allegations, including money-laundering and bribery, were dropped.

An official in the prime minister's office said Netanyahu would serve as acting foreign minister until the election.

Written and presented by Ann Salter