Liberman's Jordan Control Proposal Sparks Netanyahu's Outrage

A political storm erupted Wednesday after former Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman suggested Jordan take administrative and security responsibility for parts of the West Bank. Speaking on the 'B'Sheva' podcast, Liberman stated the Palestinian Authority had "gone bankrupt" and a new entity was needed to manage areas B and C. He proposed an understanding with Jordan for them to manage these territories, either by deploying their own troops or establishing units under Jordanian command.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu immediately attacked Liberman, accusing him of being "left-wing" and expressing disbelief that he would suggest Jordanian military control over "the lands of Israel." Netanyahu urged Liberman to retract his statement.

Liberman later clarified his proposal, stating he meant areas A and B, not B and C, and suggested an "Israeli-Jordanian confederation." His party, Yisrael Beiteinu, issued a further clarification, calling the initial mention of B and C a "mistake" and criticizing the "hysterical reaction" from those who oppose Netanyahu. The party also pointed to Netanyahu's own past statements and actions, including supporting the disengagement from Gaza and releasing Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

Liberman directly responded to Netanyahu, questioning his moral authority to lecture him, citing Netanyahu's support for the Gaza disengagement, releasing Sinwar, and transferring funds to Hamas.

Other officials also condemned Liberman's remarks. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich claimed Liberman wanted to return Israel to the days of the Jordanian Legion, while Minister Amichai Chikli called the idea "a delusion" and argued Liberman should not hold security positions.