MOSCOW (Sputnik) — Israeli Interior Minister Silvan Shalom announced on Saturday his decision to resign following sexual harassment accusations, local media reported, citing a statement attributed to the high-ranking official.
"For some 23 years I have served the public with determination and faith as an MK [member of Knesset] and a minister in various offices out of a feeling I was fulfilling a mission and a desire to advance important social and public goals," Shalom’s statement was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post.
The resignation comes after 11 women complained the minister had attempted to make inappropriate sexual advancements toward them during his political career.
According to Shalom, the allegations had a negative impact on his family and, though he rejects the claims, he decided to leave his post.
Attorney Amir Ohana of Israel’s Likud party is set to replace Shalom.
