Netanyahu, Lieberman Clash Over Jordan's Role in West Bank Areas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized a proposal by Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, concerning the administration of areas in the West Bank. The public dispute erupted after Lieberman suggested an agreement with Jordan to transfer the management of Areas A and B to Jordanian control. Netanyahu vehemently opposed this, stating it would effectively place Jordanian forces in charge of parts of "Eretz Israel" (Land of Israel). He accused Lieberman of being "left-wing," citing his past government formations and potential future alliances, and demanded he immediately retract his statement.

Lieberman responded by referencing Netanyahu's 2009 Bar-Ilan speech, where the prime minister publicly acknowledged the possibility of a Palestinian state. Lieberman clarified his position, advocating for Israel to retain full control over Area C while seeking an alternative to the current administrative and security oversight in Areas A and B. He characterized the Palestinian Authority as a political entity, distinct from Hamas's armed terror, and stressed the need for territorial continuity within Area C.

Lieberman stated his opposition to Israel managing the daily lives of Palestinians in cities like Nablus, Jenin, and Tulkarm. He proposed an agreement with Jordan for managing Areas A and B, potentially within an Israeli-Jordanian confederation, to prevent the strengthening of Hamas and other groups. Lieberman also criticized Netanyahu by recalling decisions related to the Gaza disengagement (Gush Katif), the release of Yahya Sinwar, and the transfer of Qatari funds to Gaza.

Earlier reports indicated that Netanyahu's social media account shared screenshots, including one detailing a 2018 meeting in Cyprus between then-Defense Minister Lieberman and the Qatari Foreign Minister.