Ya’akov Edri

(1950- )

Ya’acov Edri was born in Morocco in 1950 and immigrated to Israel in 1959.

After performing his military service in the Israel Navy, he earned a BA in political science from the University of Haifa.

Edri has served as mayor of Or Akiva, deputy chairman of the Or Akiva City Council, and community center director.

Elected to the Knesset in January 2003, he is a member of the State Control Committee.

In March 2003, Edery was appointed Deputy Minister of Public Security.

In January 2006, he was appointed Minister of Health and Minister for the Development of the Negev and Galilee.

In May 2006 Ya'akov Edery was appointed Minister without Portfolio, responsible for liaison between the government and the Knesset. 

In July 2006 he was also made responsible for Jerusalem affairs.

In July 2007 he was appointed Minister of Immigrant Absorption and Minister for the Development of the Negev and the Galilee

He is married and the father of two children and lives in Or Akiva.