The appointment is expected to take effect on Sunday. The appointing committee said that Zini is 'expected to understand and know that subordination to the prime minister does not justify actions that are inconsistent with the broad principles of democratic governance'

Israeli army officials worry about clashes that could erupt with protesters, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, on the Global Sumud Flotilla's ships as they near Gaza. Italy's Meloni has called for a halt, despite all parties – including Israel's navy – promising to forgo violence during the takeover once the aid for the Palestinian enclave reaches Israeli waters