The government has announced that it would extend the service of Shin Bet chief Yuval Diskin for an additional year. Diskin is now set to serve until May of 2011.
In a debate held prior to the government vote on the matter Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, "I have asked to extend Yuval's service because he holds a unique post in a central junction of nerves."
He added, "Yuval is doing a wonderful job for the security of the state. The additional year will give him more time to examine people who may be able to fill his shoes in the future."
Defense Minister Ehud Barak also praised the intelligence chief. "Diskin is a stable man who is honest and able to fight for the things he believes in," Barak said. His cooperation with the IDF is profound and deserving of commendation."
Diskin was named head of the Shin Bet in May of 2005. He replaced former Minister Avi Dichter.