Liberman's West Bank Proposal Sparks Fierce Clash With Netanyahu

Avigdor Liberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, ignited a political firestorm by suggesting Jordan should administer Areas B and C in the West Bank. In an interview with "Besheva," Liberman stated, "We must reach an understanding with the Jordanians that they will manage Areas B and C, taking security and administrative responsibility." He elaborated that Jordan has a greater stake in resolving the Palestinian issue than Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly condemned the proposal, accusing Liberman of leaning left and questioning his judgment. "I knew you were on the left since you formed a government with Mansour Abbas," Netanyahu wrote, adding, "I did not believe you would propose today that the Jordanian army control areas of the Land of Israel. Retract immediately!"

Liberman responded to Netanyahu, reminding him of his own past statements, including the 2009 Bar-Ilan University speech where he expressed willingness to establish a Palestinian state. Liberman clarified his position, emphasizing that Israel must maintain absolute control over Area C to ensure territorial continuity. He proposed an alternative for administrative and security control in Areas A and B, suggesting an agreement with Jordan to manage these areas, potentially through a Jordanian-Israeli confederation.

Liberman further stated his opposition to Israel managing Palestinian lives in cities like Nablus, Jenin, or Tulkum, aiming to prevent a vacuum that extremist groups could exploit. He concluded by criticizing Netanyahu's past actions, including the expulsion from Gush Katif, the release of Yahya Sinwar and other terrorists, and the transfer of Qatari funds to Gaza, asserting that Netanyahu has no right to lecture others on morality.