Liberman Claims Netanyahu Asked UAE President to Lie About Pre-Oct. 7 Warnings

Avigdor Liberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has made dramatic claims regarding a meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed. Liberman alleges that Netanyahu requested bin Zayed to deny receiving any prior warnings about the October 7th Hamas attack. According to Liberman, bin Zayed refused, reportedly stating, 'I am not prepared to lie for you.'

Liberman further asserted that Netanyahu had received extensive warnings, including an 11-page document detailing the scenario that unfolded on October 7th, which he claims Netanyahu ignored. Liberman stated he raised these prior warnings in cabinet meetings during his resignation and that everything is documented, asserting, 'He knew.'

Liberman criticized Netanyahu's political conduct, suggesting the alleged request to bin Zayed explains Netanyahu's subsequent shift in rhetoric towards Arab nations. He noted Netanyahu's willingness to accommodate Arab states for relations with Saudi Arabia, followed by accusations against them, calling it 'unreasonable behavior for a prime minister.'

Liberman described Netanyahu's actions as unreasonable and not those of a sensible person, especially given the current situation. He argued that instead of introspection and drawing conclusions after October 7th, Netanyahu is focused on assigning blame. Liberman highlighted the significant cost to Israel since the attacks, with over 2,000 citizens killed and 26,000 soldiers wounded, emphasizing the lack of accountability, contrasting it with a prison sentence given to a youth leader for administrative responsibility after a fatal incident.

Additionally, Liberman called for a comprehensive overhaul of the justice system and legislation to combat organized crime, particularly in the Negev region, which he fears could become a breeding ground for domestic extremist groups. He stressed the need for a structured plan, including new legislation and a national headquarters with different sentencing, involving all relevant bodies.