After six weeks during which Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu temporarily held the Yerushalayim and Tradition Affairs portfolio, a compromise arrangement has been reached. Justice Minister Yariv Levin will assume the role of Acting Minister for Yerushalayim and Tradition, while Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi will be given direct responsibility for the annual Lag BaOmer pilgrimage in Meron.
According to the cabinet agenda released Friday, Levin’s appointment will be formalized at Sunday’s government meeting. His term as acting minister will last for three months, during which he will continue to hold his other positions—Justice Minister, Acting Interior Minister, and Acting Religious Affairs Minister.
The reshuffle follows the resignation of former minister Meir Porush, who stepped down amid disagreements over the draft law. Netanyahu had held the ministry himself since Porush’s departure.
As part of the arrangement, practical oversight of the Meron celebrations, including preparations, coordination, and execution of the massive annual event, will be transferred to Minister Karhi. Levin had expressed reluctance to personally take on responsibility for Meron, leading to the split in duties.
{Matzav.com}
