Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has said he will step down in September.

Mr Olmert announced he will quit after his ruling Kadima party chooses a new leader in a September 17 internal election in which he will not run.

He said: "I have decided I won't run in the Kadima movement primaries, nor do I intend to intervene in the elections.

"When a new chairman is chosen, I will resign as prime minister to permit them to put together a new government swiftly and effectively."

The prime minister has been under pressure to resign over a corruption inquiry and his handling of recent conflicts.

He has vigorously denied any wrongdoing and defended his record in office.

Several Kadima ministers in the ruling coalition are expected to stand as prime ministerial candidates in the September leadership contest.

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