Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Yechiel Leiter as the country’s new Ambassador to the United States. Leiter, who was born in the United States, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the chief of staff in Israel’s Finance Ministry. He has also held significant positions, including deputy director-general of the Ministry of Education and acting chairman of the Israel Ports Company.

Leiter has experienced personal tragedy, as his son was killed during the Gaza war last year while serving in the Israeli military against the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

In a statement released on Friday, Netanyahu praised Leiter’s qualifications, calling him “a highly capable diplomat, an eloquent speaker, and someone with a deep understanding of American culture and politics.”

Leiter’s appointment follows the recent re-election of former U.S. President Donald Trump to a second term, a victory that was widely celebrated in Israel due to Trump’s strong support for the country.