Lieberman Calls for Rebellion Within Likud, Slams Netanyahu

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, called on Tuesday for Knesset members from the Likud party to rebel against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "This man has no connection to Jabotinsky or the Revisionist movement," Lieberman stated in a speech following the release of exit poll results. He asserted that Netanyahu is guided solely by personal and familial interests, likening his conduct to that of a "crime boss." Lieberman urged Likud members to "raise the flag of rebellion," adding, "We expect it." He expressed hope that the final results would present a "more optimistic" picture than the initial polls and urged supporters to "hold on until we see the true results." Exit polls indicated that the Gush Etzion bloc would not secure a 61-seat majority. Lieberman had previously ruled out forming a minority government, even for a transitional period. While the opposition, according to polls, holds a significant majority of around 70 seats, this includes Arab parties with whom Lieberman has refused to cooperate. At Yisrael Beiteinu's election headquarters, activists initially expressed cautious optimism, predicting 10 to 11 seats for the party. However, a somber mood prevailed as exit poll results, projecting seven to nine seats for Yisrael Beiteinu, were announced. Some activists expressed disappointment, with one noting the need to "buy champagne from the supermarket." Despite the initial relief and congratulations, the understanding that the final decision was still distant spread. Some activists believe a government may not be formed, but the current situation could allow for control of the Knesset with the support of Ra'am to replace the current Knesset Speaker, Amir Ohana. There is a possibility of an interim government, potentially cooperating with Arab parties on issues of crime in Arab society, though Lieberman has stated he will not form a government with Arab parties under any circumstances. The strategy might involve leveraging cooperation with Arab parties to control Knesset committees, potentially weakening the Likud and finding defectors. The ultimate goal for some activists is a unity government, possibly led by Gush Etzion or even Lieberman himself.