Barkat (L) and Netanyahu
Barkat (L) and NetanyahuMarc Israel Sellem/Flash90

Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat strongly criticized the decision of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Tuesday to appoint a Minister for Jerusalem Affairs, contrary to promises he has made in the past. 

"The decision on the rebuilding of Jerusalem Affairs Ministry was made against my better judgment and contrary to the commitment of the Prime Minister," Barkat said Tuesday. 

"Jerusalem is not a consolation prize to anyone," he continued. "I am sorry that narrow political considerations led to a waste of public money and unnecessary red tape that might impede the working of the government and municipal development and promotion of Jerusalem."

MK Ze'ev Elkin (Likud) has been appointed to the position, after his position of the Ministry of Strategic Affairs was given at the last moment to MK Gilad Erdan (Likud). 

Netanyahu promised during the election campaign to work closely with Barkat and keep the Jerusalem Affairs portfolio under his leadership.