Backgrounder: Who’s who in the new Israeli government

This past Sunday, on June 13, the 36th government of Israel was sworn in. The new government is a diverse coalition comprised of eight parties, and will be led by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett for the next two years, after which Yair Lapid will take over. The new 28-member cabinet features record diversity.

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Iran’s role in the latest Gaza conflict

References to Iran have been glaringly absent from commentary on the clash between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza, even though two primary terrorist organisations, Hamas and Islamic Jihad, have effusively praised Tehran and its regional proxies for providing their military capabilities and finance.

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Australian Government shows seriousness about accountability for Palestinian aid

The Australian Government told a Senate estimates hearing last week that it has sought assurances that funding provided to rebuild Gazan buildings damaged in the most recent conflict will not be commandeered by Hamas to use for military purposes. This is the latest in a series of accountability measures that have been prioritised by the Australian Government with respect to its Palestinian aid program. 

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Netanyahu leaves behind a complex legacy in Israel. His successor will need to deliver change — and fast

The Conversation, June 14, 2021 Israel’s 36th government was approved today, with a slim majority of 60–59 in the Knesset (parliament). The new prime minister is the leader of national-religious party Yamina, Naftali Bennett. A religious person, former commander in an elite army combat unit and successful high-tech entrepreneur, Bennett was forced to form a unity government with…

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