We cannot support Barak and his failed government and we will make every effort to replace him

Ariel Sharon

But at Monday's opening of parliament, it emerged that the prime minister had obtained the temporary support of the ultra-orthodox Shas, allowing the government to survive at least for the next month.

Mr Sharon - the man Palestinians blame for sparking the clashes - accuses Mr Barak of making Israel "appear weak" by continuing to seek peace through the so-called Oslo peace process.

The Likud leader has now told the Israeli media that he will devote all of his energy towards toppling Mr Barak.

'Last gasps'

The BBC's Greg Barrow in Jerusalem says the prospect of working alongside Mr Barak in a government still committed to Middle East peace seems to have proved to much for Mr Sharon.

The prime minister has the temporary support of the ultra-orthodox Shas

Mr Sharon set stiff conditions when negotiating his possible inclusion in a coalition with Mr Barak.

These included his appointment as deputy prime minister, a hand in determining the agenda on security issues and the power of veto over any diplomatic initiatives.

Now the coalition talks have failed, the Likud leader says the government must be replaced.

"We cannot support Barak and his failed government and we will make every effort to replace him", he said.

"It is clear already that it will take another month, another few months, but these are already the last gasps of the government", added Mr Sharon.