LOONDON — In a surprising political twist, former UK Prime Minister David Cameron has re-entered the British government, taking on the role of foreign secretary on Monday.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffled his top team in anticipation of an upcoming general election next year.

Sunak removed right-wing figure Suella Braverman from her position as interior minister, citing concerns over heightened tensions during recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations and counter-protests in Britain.

James Cleverly, the former foreign secretary, replaced Braverman, setting the stage for the unexpected appointment of Cameron as Cleverly's successor.

Cameron, 57, resigned as prime minister in 2016 following the Brexit referendum. He stepped down as a Member of Parliament the same year. In 2021, Cameron faced scandal for lobbying the UK government on behalf of Greensill Capital, a finance group that later collapsed, tarnishing his reputation.

Downing Street announced that Cameron would be granted a life peerage in the House of Lords, the upper chamber of the UK parliament, allowing him to serve in the government.

In response to the appointment, Cameron stated that he "gladly accepted" the role, emphasizing that Britain is confronted with a "daunting set of international challenges." Despite his seven-year absence from frontline politics, Cameron expressed confidence that his extensive experience, spanning 11 years as Conservative leader and six years as prime minister, would contribute to addressing these crucial challenges. — Agencies