Netanyahu forms a coalition government in Israel with the anti-LGBT Noam party
An agreement was reached by Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party to offer an openly homophobic ultra-nationalist party leader a position in the Israeli administration.
It is the most recent step that will give far-right parties in Israel's ruling coalition strength never before seen.
Deputy minister and head of the "Jewish identity" authority will be Avi Maoz.
He is the leader of Noam, an anti-Arab, anti-LGBTQ, religious-nationalist group that supports a rigorous interpretation of Jewish religious law in Israel.
The arrangement has increased concerns over the make-up of Mr. Netanyahu's eventual government.
Yair Lapid, the outgoing prime minister, called it "full-on insanity," while Palestinian officials warned of the perils of an upcoming "right-wing fascist coalition."
Gay pride parades should be canceled, according to Mr. Maoz, who has called LGBT persons a menace to the family. In 2019, his party produced an advertisement with the slogan "Israel chooses to be normal."
Additionally, he stated that a woman makes her greatest contribution through marriage and parenthood.
Israeli far-right leader pledged a crucial government position
With Netanyahu's victory, the Israeli far right gains power.
This year, violence between Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories has increased, and critics worry that the new government's policies would only serve to heighten tensions.
Since starting coalition negotiations, Mr. Netanyahu has largely avoided making any public statements.
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