Israeli cabinet approves addition of hardline Beiteinu party to government

The Israeli cabinet approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's move to add hardline party Israel Beiteinu to his coalition on Monday, paving the way for Avigdor Lieberman to become defence minister. 
The premier's office said the addition of the Israel Beiteinu party of outspoken hawk and nationalist Lieberman was approved unanimously. 
Moshe Yaalon, who had been in the post for four years, resigned earlier this month citing a lack of faith in Netanyahu. Lieberman, who was in the opposition since March 2015 elections but previously served as foreign minister under Netanyahu, has said he will follow sensible policies with an aim to bringing stability to Israel and the region. 
The United States has expressed concern at the formation of the most right-wing government in Israel's history. 
Without Lieberman's party, Netanyahu had a government with only a razor thin majority of 61 against 59 in the 120-seat Knesset. 
The Israeli parliament is expected to vote on Lieberman's appointment and the addition of his party to the government later on Monday. 
The addition of the five-seat Israel Beiteinu widens the majority.

Source: QNA