National Security Council head Meir Ben Shabbat to end term in August

National Security Council head Meir Ben Shabbat notified Prime Minister Naftali Bennett on Wednesday night that he intends to end his term after four years in office.

Earlier this month he had agreed to remain in his position until further notice to ensure functional continuity and an easier transition for the new government. Ben Shabbat said that he is planning to vacate his position by the end of August. 

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett thanked Ben Shabbat for his service as the head of the National Security Council, noting his contribution to Israel’s national security. 

“I would like to commend Meir Ben Shabbat for his many years of contributing to Israel’s security in a professional and successful manner,” Bennett wrote in a statement on Twitter.

“Even in the coronavirus crisis, Meir worked day and night for the health of the citizens of Israel, and functioned in a way worthy of appreciation. I am confident that he will make another great contribution to the State of Israel in the future as well,” Bennett said.

Defense Minister Benny Gantz also thanked Ben Shabbat, saying on Twitter that “On my behalf and on behalf of the defense establishment, I would like to thank Meir Ben Shabbat for his service in strengthening the external and internal security of the State of Israel.”

Former Prime Minister and current opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu, under whom Ben Shabbat served, tweeted his thanks to the latter, saying “Together with all the citizens of Israel, I sincerely thank the Chairman of the National Security Council, Meir Ben Shabbat, for his outstanding service for Israel’s security.”