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The Israeli daily Ha'aretz quoted sources in the security establishment as calling the appointment an appropriate one, noting Perry's familiarity and experience in dealing with the MIA issue.

Perry headed the Shin Bet for seven years.

After leaving the post last year, Perry became director general of Cellcom, a cellular phone network that began operating in Israel last year.

In keeping with policy, the identities of Shin Bet heads are barred from publication until after they leave the post.