Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Netanyahu, Vows to Replace Government Before Becoming PM

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, spoke on 103FM on July 2, 2026, outlining his vision ahead of the upcoming elections and sharply criticizing the current Israeli government. He emphasized that his priority is to replace the government before aiming to become prime minister, asserting his suitability based on his capabilities and understanding of ongoing processes. Lieberman condemned the government's focus on legislation such as the Communications Law and Attorney General Law, calling it "madness" and accusing them of prioritizing political blocs over national security.

Lieberman positioned himself to the right of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting his deep roots in the Beitar movement and contrasting his background with Netanyahu’s. He claimed that the October 7 attacks would not have happened under his leadership and criticized Netanyahu for supporting the evacuation of Jewish settlers from Gush Katif and facilitating the release of militant leader Yahya Sinwar. Lieberman predicted a "Hungarian scenario" victory for his bloc, promising to restore order and decisiveness in both foreign and domestic arenas.

Addressing recent controversies, Lieberman condemned Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi’s incitement against the IDF chief of staff, calling for his imprisonment under a 1977 law. He also dismissed Netanyahu’s claims that Iran possesses nuclear weapons as false, stating Iran is close but does not yet have atomic bombs. Lieberman accused the government of distracting from failures such as the Lebanon conflict and inability to contain threats from the Houthis.

During a visit to communities near Gaza marking 1,000 days since October 7, Lieberman praised the resilience of residents preparing to return and rebuild. He criticized the government for focusing on symbolic legislation while the military faces shortages and no clear victories have been achieved against Hamas, Hezbollah, or Iran. He credited former U.S. President Donald Trump for efforts in securing the release of hostages, distancing Netanyahu from that success. Lieberman also expressed trust in former hostages chief Nitzan Alon’s assessment that the war could have ended a year earlier, blaming Netanyahu for responsibility over the ongoing crisis and opposing the current government’s refusal to establish a state commission of inquiry.