BICOM

The White House yesterday officially announced that Dan Shapiro will become the next US ambassador to Israel. His nomination must now be confirmed by the US Senate. Shapiro, an advisor to US President Barack Obama on the Middle East, has worked closely with US Envoy George Mitchell and Obama administration adviser Dennis Ross, travelling to the region frequently. He played a key role last year in reviving peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians.

Both Jewish and Palestinian voices in America praised Shapiro in February when it became clear that he was going to become ambassador. Shapiro assisted Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign, handling Middle East affairs. He also played a key role in helping to reach out to the US Jewish community.

Shapiro is currently the senior director for the Middle East and North Africa on the White House National Security Staff. He will now replace James Cunningham a career diplomat, who has held the post since 2008.