Historic Appointment for Israel

For the first time in its history, the Israeli government has named an Arab Muslim to the Cabinet. Raleb Majadele said his promotion was the first step to giving Israel’s 20 percent Arab minority a “feeling of belonging.”

BBC:

Raleb Majadele from the Labour Party will be minister without portfolio.

Mr Majadele, aged 53, said his appointment would give Israeli Arabs a sense of belonging.

Labour Party leader Amir Peretz said it was an historic step towards equality for Israeli Arabs, who make up about 20% of Israel’s population.

All Israeli cabinet ministers - except for the ultra-nationalist Minister of Strategic Affairs, Avigdor Lieberman - voted in favour of Mr Majadele’s appointment.

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knesset.gov.il