Lieberman Sets Terms for Government, Eyes Defectors from Likud

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, announced on Thursday a series of conditions for forming the next government, less than two weeks before the Knesset elections. Lieberman stated that his party will not sit in a government headed by Benjamin Netanyahu, will not cooperate with Haredi or Arab parties, and will not support a minority government, even for a transitional period. He also presented a scenario where Knesset members from the Likud might join a coalition opposing Netanyahu, claiming to personally know several who would be willing to do so.

In a post on X, Lieberman clarified his stance on a national unity government, emphasizing that his coalition would consist solely of Zionist parties, excluding Ra'am, the Joint List, Shas, and United Torah Judaism. He reiterated his firm opposition to Netanyahu, stating, "With Netanyahu, the world may turn upside down, we will not sit in any situation." He also added that the Likud party, without Netanyahu, could be a significant partner.

Lieberman's statement also suggested that he believes enough Likud members understand the "gravity of the hour" and are willing to join a Zionist coalition, implying they feel Netanyahu has made them subservient to figures like Goldknopf and Der'i. He expressed confidence in achieving a solid majority in the upcoming elections, despite poll results.

The announcement comes amid public exchanges between Lieberman and Benny Gantz, chairman of Blue and White, concerning the possibility of forming a government with the support of Arab parties. Gantz accused Lieberman of previously pushing for a government reliant on the Joint List in 2020. Lieberman rejected these accusations, countering that he is acting to save the country while Gantz is working to save Netanyahu. Prime Minister Netanyahu also weighed in, accusing Lieberman and Gadi Eisenkot of intending to form a left-wing government with Arab parties and urging a vote for the Likud to prevent it.