Avigdor Lieberman Vows to Block Democrats From Key Ministries, Yair Golan Fires Back

Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, declared at a public conference in Ramat Hasharon that he will not allow the Democratic Party to hold senior ministerial portfolios such as Defense, Internal Security, or Justice in any future government. When asked about a scenario where the Democrats are essential to forming a government, Lieberman responded emphatically, "No and no. It is simply unacceptable."

The exchange grew more personal when Lieberman was asked if he could compliment Democratic Party leader Yair Golan, whom he frequently criticizes. Lieberman replied sharply, "We would be happy to compliment him, but he should just keep quiet. That is his greatest contribution to our victory."

Golan quickly responded on X (formerly Twitter), accusing Lieberman of echoing Prime Minister Netanyahu's divisive campaign rhetoric. He wrote, "Avigdor, it’s time to stop serving Netanyahu’s incitement campaign." Golan also criticized Netanyahu’s advisor, Jonathan Urich, for delegitimizing the Democrats to reduce the opposition bloc’s seats and help Netanyahu return to power. Golan urged unity within the opposition, saying, "We can fight later in government, but first we must win. We choose victory."

This public confrontation highlights the tensions within the Israeli political opposition as they prepare for the next government formation, with Lieberman firmly opposing any significant role for the Democrats, while Golan insists on cooperation to defeat Netanyahu’s Likud-led bloc.