Israeli defense minister steps down

JERUSALEM >> Israel’s defense minister has officially stepped down, capping a tumultuous week of politics that is expected to bring a hard-line novice into the sensitive post.

At a short ceremony at Israel’s military headquarters on Sunday, Moshe Yaalon greeted the country’s military leaders before leaving the premises.

His departure clears the way for Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the hardline Yisrael Beitenu party, to join the govement. Over a three-decade political career, Lieberman has staked out tough positions toward the Palestinians and expressed cynicism toward inteationally backed peace efforts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu invited Lieberman to join his govement last week. The move, meant to shore up a shaky goveing majority, led Yaalon, a former military chief, to quit in protest.

Lieberman’s appointment is expected to become official in the coming days.

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