Israel's justice minister says he has decided to resign, clearing the way for him to stand trial on charges of sexually harassing a teen-age female soldier.
Haim Ramon is a leading member of the ruling Kadima Party and is considered a key ally of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.
Ramon issued a statement today (Friday) saying he will resign Sunday and has waived his parliamentary immunity and the right to a special hearing with the attorney general, Meni Mazuz.
Ramon denied having forcibly kissed the soldier and said he has asked Mazuz to ensure a speedy trial both "for personal reasons" and "public interest."
On Thursday, Attorney General Mazuz said he decided to indict Ramon because evidence leads to "a reasonable chance of conviction."