Ex-National Security Advisor Hanegbi Won't Vote Likud, Backs Lieberman
Translated & summarized from Haaretz by baba
Former National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi announced he will not vote for the Likud party in the next election, instead supporting Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu. Hanegbi cited concerns over draft evasion and what he described as "messianic and racist" elements within the right-wing. He also recalled Lieberman's ignored warnings about Hamas during his tenure. Hanegbi was previously dismissed by Prime Minister Netanyahu, with whom he reportedly had disagreements on key security decisions.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Former National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi will not vote for Likud in the upcoming elections.
- Hanegbi announced his support for Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party.
- He cited concerns over draft evasion and problematic elements within the right-wing.
- Hanegbi recalled Lieberman's ignored warnings about Hamas during his time as Defense Minister.
- Hanegbi was previously dismissed by Prime Minister Netanyahu.
- He reportedly disagreed with Netanyahu on key security decisions, including the Gaza operation.
Former National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, who served in the role on October 7, announced Tuesday that he will not vote for the Likud party in the upcoming elections. Instead, he will cast his ballot for Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beiteinu party.
In an opinion piece published in Yedioth Ahronoth, Hanegbi explained his decision, stating that right-wing parties cannot tolerate their political partners calling for the dismissal of IDF enlistment orders. He argued that after October 7, with challenging campaigns ahead, the phenomenon of draft evasion, which he believes endangers the state's existence, must be addressed. "Therefore, in the upcoming elections, I will support Lieberman," he wrote.
Hanegbi also expressed his disagreement with "messianic and racist right-wing elements" that disrespect ideological rivals and remain silent in the face of "nationalist crime waves." He criticized the "desire to shatter law enforcement systems to 'strengthen governance'" and noted that while the Israeli right has never been monolithic, certain voices have become increasingly jarring to him, not reflecting his beliefs.
Recalling his time on the security cabinet when Lieberman served as Defense Minister, Hanegbi mentioned that Lieberman's warnings about Hamas in Gaza were not given sufficient weight by cabinet members and security chiefs. Hanegbi was dismissed from his role as National Security Advisor by Netanyahu last year. At the time of his dismissal, Hanegbi accepted responsibility for the failures of October 7, calling for a thorough investigation and societal healing.
Hanegbi was considered a confidant of Netanyahu and a full partner in decision-making, making his appointment to the National Security Advisor role, despite being a political rather than professional figure, an unusual move. However, reports of sharp disagreements between them later surfaced, including Hanegbi's alleged opposition to the occupation of Gaza City and a failed assassination attempt on Hamas leaders in Doha. He also reportedly supported partial hostage deal negotiations when Netanyahu sought a comprehensive agreement.
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