Peres becomes Israel’s president

Israel’s elder statesman has now become its president. At 83, Shimon Peres has been formally sworn into the post, crowning a political career that has spanned six decades.

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was among those present as Peres took the oath of office.
He replaces Moshe Katsav, who resigned after admitting sexual offences.

The largely ceremonial role does not entail any direct involvement in policymaking. However Israeli presidents traditionally speak out on key issues and often influence political decisions.

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