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)