Avigdor Lieberman Rules Out Arab Party Ra'am as Coalition Partner in Upcoming Israeli Government

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, delivered a clear statement regarding the formation of Israel's next government during an interview with political correspondent Nadav Elimelech on i24NEWS. Lieberman unequivocally ruled out any government coalition that relies on the Arab party Ra'am, stating that neither Ra'am leader Mansour Abbas nor the party can be partners in any government configuration, including minority governments. This stance effectively closes the door on the possibility of a left-center bloc forming a government with Arab party support, which has been their only viable path to a parliamentary majority.

When asked about potential efforts by figures like Yoav Segalovich to include Ra'am members or rely on their votes, Lieberman dismissed the idea firmly, saying it was "their problem" and not relevant to his position. He emphasized that Ra'am remains off-limits regardless of which members serve in the Knesset.

Lieberman also addressed the allocation of ministerial portfolios in the next government, expressing reservations about certain parties holding key ministries. While showing respect for the Democratic Party, he stated they should not be entrusted with the Defense or Justice ministries. Instead, he suggested they could manage portfolios such as Tourism or Science, which he described as excellent options.