Liberman Proposes Jordan Take Control of Palestinian Areas in West Bank

Avigdor Liberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, has proposed transferring security and administrative responsibility for Areas A and B in the West Bank to Jordan. Liberman argued that the Palestinian issue is more critical for Jordan than for Israel, stating, "They have no choice. Ultimately, the Palestinian issue is much more acute for Jordan than for the State of Israel."

He elaborated that Israel should not be involved in managing Palestinian lives in cities like Nablus, Jenin, or Tulkarm. To prevent a vacuum that could be filled by Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and other militants, Liberman suggested reaching an agreement with Jordan for them to manage Areas A and B, potentially as part of an Israeli-Jordanian confederation. He clarified his intention was for Areas A and B, where the Palestinian Authority currently holds administrative and security control (Area A) or shared control (Area B), while Israel maintains full control over Area C.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticized Liberman's proposal, calling it an unacceptable suggestion for the Jordanian army to control parts of the Land of Israel and demanding he retract it. Netanyahu accused Liberman of being on the left, citing his past actions and potential future alliances.

Liberman retorted by reminding Netanyahu of his own past statements, including the Bar Ilan speech where he expressed willingness to establish a Palestinian state. Liberman reiterated his view that the Palestinian Authority is a terror organization, distinct from Hamas in its methods, and that Israel must maintain complete control over Area C. He also criticized Netanyahu's past decisions, such as the release of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and other terrorists, and the transfer of Qatari funds to Gaza.