The first out member of Israel`s Parliament, the Knesset will be sworn in next month. Prof. Uri Even, a University chemistry professor has previously been fired from his job with the Israeli military after he came out.

Even added that he would fight for gay rights in the Knesset.

"My joining the Knesset would be a very important step for every gay. The message is you no longer have to be ashamed. You can even be elected to the Knesset."

Members of various religious parties have criticised the appointment. United Torah Judaism member, Avraham Ravitz said gays have too much legitimacy in Israel already, and that he would fight to stop Even from passing any gay rights legislation.

"These people have a very big problem. People display various kinds of deviant behaviour, but I don`t see cities organizing parades for people to take pride in kleptomania."

Professor Even lives in Tel Aviv with his partner of 12 years and their son.