Danon said added that the role of Israel’s ambassador to the UN “is one of great responsibility, and I will continue to strengthen Israel’s standing during this trying time.”In August 2015, Danon, a Likud party stalwart, resigned from the government and flew to New York to take up the prestigious post of ambassador to the UN.Danon first entered the Knesset via the Likud in the 2009 election, and has often taken positions on the party’s Right, unafraid to challenge Netanyahu on his policies, especially on settlements. He was a frequent visitor to the West Bank prior to his arrival in New York.He has also run for Likud leader in the past, and has a strong base of supporters in the past, reaching ninth place on the party’s list in the 2015 election. On Wednesday, reports circulated that Danon was planning to quit his ambassadorship and return to Israel to complete for a spot on the Likud Party’s list.Tovah Lazaroff contributed to this report.Under the leadership of PM @netanyahu, @IsraelinUN continues to achieve unprecedented accomplishments in the diplomatic arena. During this challenging period, I will continue advancing Israel's position at the UN, & will not participate in the upcoming Knesset elections.
— Ambassador Danon (@dannydanon) December 29, 2018