UK-born Keren Hajioff is appointed special adviser to Israeli PM
Naftali Bennett says he has confidence in the 32-year-old, who becomes his new special adviser for foreign affairs and communications
A British-born former IDF major has been promoted by Naftali Bennett to become his chief foreign affairs adviser.
Keren Hajioff, who made aliyah in 2009, was named the Israeli prime minister’s new special adviser for foreign affairs and communications on Monday.
The 32-year-old joined Bennett’s team last year, when she was made his spokesperson for the international media.
Most recently she appeared in a video responding to the shooting of Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh.
A statement released by Bennett’s office said the prime minister “wishes Keren Hajioff great success in her post and noted that he has confidence in her success.”
Monday’s appointment will see her replace Shimrit Meir, one of Bennett’s closest aides who is due to leave this week amid reports of clashes with other members of the Israeli prime minister’s team.
Bennett’s chief of staff Tal Gan-Zvi also announced his resignation this week and will be replaced by Eden Bizman.
Hajioff holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in political communication from Bar-Ilan University.
She was made born in London but became a major in the IDF after moving to Israel,
She later worked as a military spokesperson. for the IDF’s Northern Command and as head of public diplomacy.
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