Lieberman's Secret Channel to Haredim Revealed Amidst Coalition Talks

Months before the recent elections and during an aggressive campaign by Yisrael Beiteinu, Avigdor Lieberman's associates conducted secret negotiations with representatives of Haredi parties. This clandestine channel, operating away from public view, became crucial after the polls closed. While election signs proclaimed "zero for draft dodgers," a different reality unfolded behind the scenes. In recent months, Lieberman's close circle, including Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and senior political advisor Avi Abuchatzira, along with businessmen, established a discreet line of communication with Haredi leadership. Sources familiar with the matter described this as a well-planned effort by Lieberman's camp to position him as prime minister with Haredi support.

Although initial discussions did not yield concrete agreements, they became the primary avenue for government formation immediately after the election results were announced. Lieberman's people actively sought the backing of Haredi parties, recalling Lieberman's past as a close ally of the Haredi community before their public political rift. Haredi sources told Channel 13 News that Lieberman "paid in cash, he burned himself on the issue that built his identity in recent years. One cannot ignore this." Current political assessments suggest Lieberman desires the Haredi parties to be part of the government, but due to public sensitivities, they are expected to provide external support initially.

Lieberman imposed strict secrecy on these talks, leaving most Yisrael Beiteinu Knesset members surprised by the parallel channel operating behind their backs and contrary to the official campaign line. In contrast, there is significant anticipation within the Haredi sector. Sources in United Torah Judaism indicated that the decision rests with their senior rabbis. "If the rabbis approve the terms of the emerging agreement, Shas will have no choice but to fall in line and join the move," they stated.

Lieberman dramatically shifted his stance on the conscription law in a recent X post, expressing willingness to compromise, a departure from his campaign promises. He stated that the election results necessitate a reassessment and that there are no easy solutions. Lieberman also opposes further elections and a minority government reliant on the Joint List and Ra'am. However, he wrote that "on all other issues, it is permissible and desirable to be flexible and compromise, understanding that grasping too much means catching nothing. This includes the conscription law. It pains me, and I know it pains many others. But given the current challenges, the national interest of Israel must come above all other considerations."

Lieberman also dismissed the possibility of a rotation government, stating he had not discussed it with anyone. He believes the rotation mechanism is detrimental to proper governance and should be abolished, with the government-forming party receiving full authority for the entire term. United Torah Judaism Chairman Yaakov Asher responded, expressing pleasure at the political players' flexibility on conscription. He lamented the potential for avoided incitement and animosity if such flexibility had been shown earlier. Asher denied any concrete proposal from the "change bloc" and reiterated that any offer would be presented to the rabbis for a decision, referencing the biblical story of Rebekah's matchmaking.

Lieberman's remarks followed the conclusion of presidential consultations, which showed a significant lead for National Unity Party Chairman Gadi Eisenkot, who received recommendations from 67 MKs compared to 46 for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. President Isaac Herzog is expected to announce on Sunday who will receive the mandate to form a government. The seven MKs from United Torah Judaism abstained from recommending anyone, suggesting Lieberman has opened a path for a government with their support.

Criticism of Lieberman's potential compromise emerged from within his own party. MK Dan Illouz, who left the Likud for Yisrael Beiteinu, strongly criticized the move, stating, "We cannot give up on the conscription law. It is not just a matter of values, it is an existential necessity." He argued that reservists are serving hundreds of days, the army needs fighters, and the economy cannot sustain it, especially with significant security challenges. Illouz believes the right way to prevent new elections is to abandon blocs, define agreed-upon principles, and form a Zionist unity government. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu is reportedly pressuring United Torah Judaism to avoid a government involving Lieberman, with his wife Sara involved in the planning. Netanyahu expressed a desire to renew the political partnership, but United Torah Judaism stated they would await rabbinical guidance, noting the current circumstances leave no other option.