Liberman Warns Netanyahu May Use Shin Bet Against Political Rivals in Upcoming Elections

Avigdor Liberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, warned on July 18 that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might attempt to use the Shin Bet security service to target political opponents in the forthcoming elections. Speaking on the program "Meet the Press," Liberman urged Shin Bet employees to document any political requests they receive, expressing concern over attempts to manipulate the agency against "unfriendly" media outlets and political rivals.

Liberman criticized former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot for supporting Aryeh Deri and the Shas party, labeling Shas as "the most anti-Zionist party." He expressed confusion over Eizenkot's endorsement of Deri, attributing it to lack of experience and knowledge. Liberman also condemned the current government's recent legislative moves, including gender segregation laws in academia, calling them "Taliban-style legislation" that would be reversed by the next government.

Regarding coalition possibilities, Liberman stated that the next prime minister would be either himself, Naftali Bennett, or Gadi Eizenkot, and firmly ruled out joining any coalition that includes Deri or his ally Yitzhak Goldknopf. He also criticized Defense Minister Yoav Kitz and Netanyahu for not supporting IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi amid attacks from Deri, suggesting the government might try to remove Kochavi if it remains in power past October 27.

On the issue of military conscription, Liberman insisted on mandatory service for all Israeli citizens, including Jews, Muslims, and Druze, either in military or civilian frameworks, rejecting exemptions. He emphasized that institutions not teaching core subjects would lose state funding, framing opposition to conscription as anti-Jewish and contrary to Jewish historical tradition.

Liberman's remarks highlight tensions within Israel's political and security establishments ahead of the elections, focusing on the politicization of security agencies and coalition alignments.