Dermer transitioning to special envoy post, Leiter to take on larger role from DC — sources

Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is slated to step down from his position next week and hand over some of his responsibilities to Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter, an Israeli official and a second source familiar with the matter told The Times of Israel.

Dermer is seen as Netanyahu’s closest adviser and has been handling a wide range of diplomatic issues, from ties to the US to Israel’s relations with its Arab neighbors.

While stepping down from the government, Dermer will remain involved on certain issues, such as efforts to expand the Abraham Accords, and he will operate as a special envoy for Netanyahu, according to the source familiar with the matter.

However, additional responsibilities regarding ties with the Trump administration will be transferred to Leiter, who will stay on as ambassador in Washington.

The source familiar with the matter likened Dermer’s new role to the one held by Jared Kushner, who did not formally rejoin the government for US President Donald Trump’s second term, but has played a central role in the brokering and implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza on behalf of the American administration.

The Israeli Embassy in Washington and Dermer’s office did not respond to requests for comment.