Israel Appoints Reuven Azar as New Ambassador to India with Expanded Diplomatic Role

The Israeli government recently greenlit the appointment of Reuven Azar as the new Ambassador to India, underscoring his expansive role as the non-resident Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Bhutan as well. Azar’s nomination is part of a larger cohort of 21 Heads of Missions cleared by Israel to assume their responsibilities soon.

Professional Background

Reuven Azar currently serves as the Ambassador of Israel to Romania. His diplomatic journey is marked by diverse roles, including heading the Israel-US-China internal task force at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prior to this, he spent three years as the Deputy National Security Advisor for Foreign Policy and served as the Foreign Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of Israel.

Key Diplomatic Assignments

1. From 2014 to 2018, Azar was the Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of Israel in Washington, DC.
2. He headed the Middle East Research division in the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2012 to 2014.
3. Azar served as the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Israel in Amman from 2010 to 2012.
4. His earlier stint in Washington, from 2003 to 2006, saw him as the Counsellor for Political Affairs.

Extensive Regional Engagement

Azar has been extensively involved in Middle East affairs, covering various aspects of cooperation and negotiations with the Palestinian Authority. His roles included leading the Iran Sanctions Team and directing Middle East Economic Research during his nearly three decades of diplomatic service.

International Exposure

Apart from regional assignments, Azar served four years in Cairo as the Head of the Economic and Trade Department at the Embassy of Israel. Born in Argentina, he immigrated to Israel at the age of 13 and contributed significantly as a paratrooper in the Israeli Defence Forces.

Educational Background

Azar holds graduate and post-graduate degrees in International Relations from the Hebrew University, providing a solid academic foundation to complement his rich diplomatic experience.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q: Who is Reuven Azar, and what role will he play as Israel’s Ambassador to India?

A: Reuven Azar, currently Israel’s Ambassador to Romania, is appointed as the new Ambassador to India, with additional roles as non-resident Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Bhutan. His mandate includes strengthening diplomatic ties and garnering international support for Israel.

Q: What is Azar’s diplomatic background?

A: Azar, an experienced diplomat, has held key positions, including Deputy National Security Advisor and Deputy Ambassador in Washington, DC. He brings nearly three decades of service, covering Middle East affairs, Iran sanctions, and economic research.

Q: How does Azar’s international experience contribute to his role?

A: Azar’s international exposure includes serving in Cairo and Washington, emphasizing economic and political aspects. Born in Argentina, he immigrated to Israel, contributing significantly as a paratrooper in the Israeli Defence Forces.