Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Netanyahu Over October 7 Failures, Calls for Government Change

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Israel Beiteinu party, expressed his political ambitions and harshly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent interview on 103FM. Lieberman stated his goal is first to replace the current government and then run for prime minister, asserting he has the necessary capabilities for the role. He condemned the government's focus on legislation such as the Communications Law, Attorney General Law, and Kashrut Law, calling it madness.

Lieberman sharply contrasted himself with Netanyahu, claiming that the October 7 attacks would not have happened under his leadership. He recalled Netanyahu's past support for the evacuation of Jewish settlers from Gush Katif, a move that led to Lieberman's dismissal from Ariel Sharon's government. He also opposed the release of Yahya Sinwar from prison, a decision Netanyahu championed.

Addressing the controversy surrounding Rabbi Aryeh Yazdi, who incited against the IDF Chief of Staff while receiving state funding, Lieberman demanded legal action. Citing the 1977 Penal Code, he argued Yazdi should be imprisoned for at least 10 to 15 years for incitement during wartime, criticizing the state for funding him instead.

On security matters, Lieberman dismissed Netanyahu's claims that Iran possesses a nuclear bomb as a distraction from the failures of October 7 and the ongoing conflict. He stated Iran does not have nuclear weapons but has developed what he called a "Hormuz bomb" due to Netanyahu's policies. Lieberman also criticized the government's inaction regarding the closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the shutdown of the port of Eilat for three years.

Visiting communities near Gaza, Lieberman condemned the leadership's focus on symbolic laws while the military faces shortages of soldiers and ammunition. He expressed trust in Nitzan Alon but distrust in Netanyahu and accused the government of blocking the establishment of a state commission of inquiry into recent events.