Dalia Itzik denies planning to run for president

Dalia Itzik became the first female acting president of Israel on Friday after the Knesset decided to grant Moshe Katsav's request for a temporary suspension of three months, effective immediately, but denied rumors that she was planning to run for a permanent position as Israel's next president. "A society is tested in times of crisis. We, as a society, must act with caution and sensibility," said Itzik in her first speech as acting president. "I am aware of the great responsibility that stems from this [temporary appointment] and will [simultaneously] continue in my position as chairwoman of the Knesset."