Israel names new ambassador to UN

Occupied Jerusalem: The Israeli government on Sunday approved the appointment of Gabriela Shalev as new ambassador to the United Nations.

Shalev replaces Dan Gillerman, whose term ends in a few weeks, the foreign ministry said in a statement. Shalev is a law professor at the Hebrew University in Occupied Jerusalem.

Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni told Sunday's cabinet meeting that it was important to name a woman "who will become Israel's face in such an important place.''

"Her exceptional knowledge will allow Professor Shalev to confront the challenges facing Israel," Livni was quoted as saying.