Avigdor Lieberman Accuses Netanyahu of Potential Shin Bet Misuse in Upcoming Elections

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Israel Beiteinu party, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an interview with 'Meet the Press,' alleging that Netanyahu might exploit the Shin Bet security service against political rivals in the upcoming election. Lieberman warned of attempts to use the Shin Bet against political opponents and media outlets deemed unfriendly by Netanyahu, urging Shin Bet employees to document any political requests they receive.

Lieberman also condemned the current government's security and conscription policies, describing some legislative moves as "Taliban-style" and accusing a coalition of Netanyahu, Aryeh Deri, and Yitzhak Goldknopf of harming Israel's security more than Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis combined. He specifically criticized Shas and its leader Aryeh Deri, as well as former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, questioning Eizenkot's support for Shas due to inexperience.

He declared that Israel Beiteinu would not join any government including Shas or United Torah Judaism, stating, "A coalition with them is out of the question for Israel Beiteinu." On conscription, Lieberman reiterated his demand for mandatory service for all populations and threatened to withhold state funding from institutions that do not teach core curriculum.

In response, Minister Amichai Shikli dismissed Lieberman's allegations as "absurd and serious accusations," rejecting claims of potential political use of the Shin Bet. The Likud party accused Lieberman of undemocratic behavior and adopting left-wing tactics, emphasizing Netanyahu's proven respect for election processes and warning that Shin Bet control under Lieberman would pose a real danger to Israeli citizens.