Netanyahu picks new US envoy: Former aide with settlement ties takes key role
A well-known ex-chief of staff gets top diplomatic post in Washington as Trump prepares for second term. The US-born appointee brings unique background and personal connection to Israeli settlements
Benjamin Netanyahu picked his ex-chief of staff as Israels next ambassador to Washington - a move that comes right after Trumps win in presidential race. The chosen diplomat Yechiel Leiter worked with Netanyahu during his finance-minister days; their paths crossing again at this high-stakes moment
In a not-so-surprising development‚ the US-born Leiter (who now lives in West Bank settlement Eli which sits north of Ramallah) brings his pro-settlement stance to the table. His personal connection to recent events runs deep — his son lost his life in the Gaza conflict last year. The timing of this pick-and-place might hint at Netanyahus plans for West Bank during Trumps upcoming term
The previous Trump-Netanyahu teamwork brought some big-time wins for Israel: Jerusalem got its US embassy; the Golan Heights got US backing. Now with fresh diplomatic moves on deck Netanyahu seems ready for round two
Yechiel Leiter is a highly capable diplomat an eloquent speaker and has a deep understanding of American culture and politics
The new envoy (whose settlement background raises some interesting questions) will start his Washington job on Jan 20th — same day Trump steps back into office
