With the announced resignation of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert following a corruption scandal, Israel’s ruling Kadima party chose a new chief: Tzipi Livni. Mr. Olmert will officially step down after Ms. Livni forms a new government. If she fails to do so before 2009, she will likely face a general election.

Ms. Livni:

• Practiced as a lawyer for a decade before entering politics

• Is 50 years old and has two sons

• Was a protégé of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon

• Served as foreign minister under both Messrs. Sharon and Olmert

• And has been closely involved in the negotiations for a Palestinian state.