BEIRUT – Lebanon's prime minister has resigned due to an impasse over a new election law and the Cabinet's refusal to extend the tenure of the country's police chief.
Najib Mikati said late Friday in a speech aired live on TV that he hoped his departure would be "an impetus for leaders to shoulder their responsibilities."
After months of wrangling, the parliament has been unable to agree on a law to govern elections slated for later this year.
The Hezbollah-dominated Cabinet has also refused to extend the tenure of Maj. Gen. Ashraf Rifi, Lebanon's police chief, whom it considers a foe.
Lebanese President Michel Suleiman must accept Mikati's resignation for it to be official.
Fox News' "Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world.