The Knesset on Monday approved the appointment of MK Ami Ayalon (Labor) to the position of minister without a portfolio by a majority of 35 votes to 11.

Ayalon will serve as a member of the Ministerial Committee on Security Issues, chairman of the Knesset State Control Committee and be responsible for implementing the recommendations of the state comptroller's report on the performance of the Home Front Command during the Second Lebanon War.

Politicians from both sides of the political spectrum criticized Ayalon for changing his stance towards Olmert's government, which he had previously vowed to work for its removal.