The Israeli cabinet on Sunday unanimously approved Yechiel Leiter, a career diplomat and long-time settlement advocate, as the country’s next ambassador to the United States. Leiter will take up the post on January 24, 2024, shortly after the inauguration of Donald Trump for his second term as US president.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar praised Leiter’s appointment during the cabinet meeting, describing him as a significant asset to Israel’s “most important relationship.” Sa’ar also acknowledged outgoing Ambassador Mike Herzog for his service in Washington.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Leiter’s diplomatic skills and deep understanding of American politics, calling him “a highly talented diplomat and an eloquent speaker.” Leiter’s personal connection to recent events adds poignancy to his role; his son, Maj. (res.) Moshe Leiter was killed in November 2023 during fighting with Hamas in Gaza following the group’s October 7 attack on Israel.
Born in the United States, Leiter immigrated to Israel as a member of Rabbi Meir Kahane’s Jewish Defense League. He was a founding resident of the Admot Yishai neighborhood in Hebron and later led initiatives supporting settlement in the disputed city. A former chairman of the Hebron Jewish Community Committee, Leiter has advocated for policies opposing Palestinian statehood, including in his 1994 book “A Peace Plan to Resist” and a 2020 article promoting West Bank annexation.
Leiter holds a PhD in political philosophy and has served in various government roles, including as chief of staff to Netanyahu during his tenure as finance minister and deputy director general of the Education Ministry. He currently leads the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs and teaches at Ono Academic College.
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