Lieberman to Head Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, is set to officially assume leadership of the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee on Monday, November 16. Lieberman stated that the country is currently navigating a challenging period, marked by significant security and internal political pressures. He described the current days as "tense days that test our nerves, both in the context of security and politically."

Lieberman emphasized the critical nature of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, highlighting its responsibility for overseeing Israel's security apparatus. He also articulated a vision for the committee to act as a safeguard, preventing military operations from being initiated for purely political motives. His focus will therefore be on both bolstering parliamentary oversight of the security system and ensuring that military decisions are not exploited for political gain.

Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Lieberman characterized his appointment as a preliminary step towards forming a new government. "This is the first step on the path to forming a good government with a stable coalition majority that will lead the State of Israel into a new era," he declared.

His appointment follows a decision by the Knesset's Organizational Committee, chaired by MK Roi Folkman, to establish a temporary Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and recommend Lieberman as its head. The committee is considered one of the Israeli parliament's most vital and sensitive bodies, particularly relevant given the current prominence of national security issues on the political agenda.