Former Israeli foreign minister and ultra-nationalist MP Avigdor Lieberman is seen during a session of the Israeli parliament in which MPs are debating whether to approve his appointment as defence minister, on May 30, 2016 in Jerusalem. (AFP PHOTO)
The Israeli parliament on Monday approved ultra-nationalist Avigdor Lieberman as the country's new defence minister hours after the cabinet endorsed him.
Lieberman, who has pledged harsh measures against Palestinian "terrorists", was approved by 55 members of the 120-seat Knesset while 43 voted against, one abstained and the others were absent.
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