Lieberman Defends Compromise on Draft Law, Denies PM Ambitions
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
Yisrael Beiteinu Chairman Avigdor Lieberman defended his willingness to negotiate with Haredi parties, stating compromise doesn't mean abandoning principles. He aims to prevent a government with Arab parties and Netanyahu's return, while insisting on the principle of universal conscription. Lieberman denied personal ambition for the Prime Minister role, calling it an option, not an obsession.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Avigdor Lieberman is willing to negotiate with Haredi parties to form a government.
- Lieberman stated compromise does not mean abandoning values or principles.
- He aims to prevent a government with Arab parties and Netanyahu's return.
- Lieberman insists on the principle of universal conscription.
- He denied having personal ambition to become Prime Minister.
- Lieberman sees his 2018 draft law as a basis for agreement.
Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, responded Sunday to criticism regarding his willingness to negotiate with Haredi parties to form a government led by Gadi Eisenkot. In a post on X, Lieberman stated that readiness for compromise does not mean abandoning values and principles. He explained his willingness to negotiate with Haredi parties as a means to prevent the formation of a government that includes Arab parties, which he claims would lead to Benjamin Netanyahu's return as Prime Minister.
Lieberman asserted that in the current reality, difficult decisions and flexibility are necessary to avoid further elections and end the "Netanyahu era." He emphasized that he remains committed to the principle of universal conscription, believing a "draft law for everyone" is the correct model. However, given the election results, he believes exploring options for agreement, even based on past proposals, is necessary.
He defended his 2018 draft law proposal, formulated with the IDF and security establishment, as a suitable basis for reaching understandings, acknowledging that adjustments would be needed post-October 7th. Lieberman reiterated that he has not conceded on the principle of conscription or the commitment to expand benefits and improve the status of reservists and career soldiers.
Furthermore, Lieberman refuted claims that he is seeking the premiership, stating his ambition is an option, not an obsession, and that he has consistently rejected tempting offers from "the other side" since 2019. He denied engaging in political maneuvers or attempting to undermine anyone.
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