Former Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman was appointed the temporary chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee pending the formation of the new coalition.

Lieberman was compelled to step down from his senior cabinet post after a criminal indictment was filed against him for breach of trust and fraud.

Following the announced appointment on Wednesday 3 Adar 5773, Meretz leader MK Zahav Gal-On expressed fears that he may use the powerful position to interfere with the ongoing criminal investigation against him. MK Dr. Ahmed Tibi questioned the validity of the appointment of a person compelled to resign his cabinet post due to criminal charges.

Responding to Tibi, MK (Likud/Beitenu) Ze’ev Elkin explained there has been a precedent, citing the case of Tzachi Hanegbi.

In another temporary appointment, MK (Yahadut Hatorah) R’ Moshe Gafne will continue on as chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee until the coalition is formed and a permanent appointment is made.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)