Lieberman Denies Sabotage, Affirms Ultra-Orthodox Draft Law Stance
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
Avigdor Lieberman, head of Yisrael Beiteinu, stated on social media that he is not sabotaging any efforts and that the ultra-Orthodox draft law remains a key issue. He addressed criticism regarding his willingness to compromise, asserting his actions are for Israel's good and not driven by personal ambition. Lieberman also reiterated his refusal to support a minority government and acknowledged the need for flexibility on the draft law, while emphasizing his commitment to a universal draft. Gadi Eisenkot, tasked with forming a government, indirectly criticized potential spoilers.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Avigdor Lieberman stated he is not sabotaging efforts and the ultra-Orthodox draft law remains a key issue.
- Lieberman denied acting out of personal ambition, stating his decisions are for Israel's good.
- He reiterated his refusal to support a minority government, warning against harming security.
- Lieberman acknowledged the need for flexibility and compromise on the draft law.
- He suggested his 2018 draft law proposal needs adjustments post-October 7.
- Gadi Eisenkot indirectly criticized those who might hinder government formation for personal interests.
Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has broken his silence following criticism over his recent statements about potential compromises, particularly concerning the ultra-Orthodox draft law. In a post on social media platform X on Sunday, November 8, Lieberman addressed his critics, stating that his willingness to compromise does not equate to abandoning principles. He asserted that those attacking him for seeking dialogue with ultra-Orthodox parties would prefer a government reliant on parties like Ra'am and the United Arab List, which he accused of sympathizing with Hamas and accusing Israel of genocide.
Lieberman reiterated his refusal to support a minority government, emphasizing that he would not facilitate a government he believes would harm security or return Netanyahu to power. He suggested that to avoid new elections and end Netanyahu's era, difficult decisions and flexibility on certain issues are necessary. Lieberman maintained his belief in a universal draft law but acknowledged that, given the election results, exploring agreements, possibly based on past proposals, is required. He noted that his 2018 draft law proposal, developed by the defense establishment, could serve as a basis for discussion, but conceded that changes are needed post-October 7.
Addressing Gadi Eisenkot, who was set to receive the mandate to form a government, Lieberman stated he is not driven by personal ambition for the premiership. He claimed to have consistently rejected lucrative offers from "the other side" since 2019, acting solely for the good of Israel. Earlier, on November 6, Lieberman had called for flexibility and compromise to form a government, warning against the "destruction of the Third Temple" and urging a reevaluation of strategies in light of election outcomes.
United Torah Judaism responded positively to Lieberman's earlier call for flexibility, expressing hope that such an approach could have been applied in previous years. Meanwhile, Gadi Eisenkot indirectly criticized those who might hinder government formation for personal gain, stating they would be remembered unfavorably during Israel's most challenging times.
Mentioned