Liberman Accuses Knesset Speaker Ohana of Serving Netanyahu Family Interests

On July 13, 2026, Avigdor Liberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, sharply criticized Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana during a parliamentary session. Liberman accused Ohana of becoming the most politically biased speaker in Knesset history and labeled him "a servant of the Netanyahu family". The confrontation occurred during a debate on the Basic Law concerning Torah study.

Ohana responded by asserting that he prioritizes opposition members in parliamentary procedures, highlighting that opposition MKs lack the direct access to ministers and officials that coalition members enjoy. He challenged Liberman to verify the number of opposition motions and inquiries he has approved, emphasizing his commitment to opposition rights.

Liberman further attacked legislation promoted by the current coalition, particularly laws enforcing ultra-Orthodox religious coercion. He vowed to repeal these laws, including the "jobs law" championed by Aryeh Deri, after the upcoming elections. Liberman condemned the religious councils as a desecration of God’s name.

Additionally, Liberman criticized potential coalition partners, warning against alliances with the Shas party under Aryeh Deri. He contrasted the current Shas leadership unfavorably with the era of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, citing inflammatory remarks by contemporary Shas rabbis against IDF soldiers and military leadership. Liberman described the coalition as dominated by Deri and Goldknopf, implying a shift away from previous values.

This exchange highlights ongoing tensions within Israeli politics over religious influence, coalition dynamics, and the role of the Knesset speaker in balancing political interests. Liberman’s statements signal his party’s opposition stance and intent to challenge the coalition’s religious legislation after elections.