Avigdor Lieberman Rejects Netanyahu, Criticizes Yair Golan Ahead of Israeli Elections

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, spoke at the "Medabrim Tekuma" event on Monday, addressing the upcoming Israeli elections and coalition possibilities. He confidently predicted a significant victory for his party and the opposition bloc, stating they could gain additional Knesset seats from the Likud party even without Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Lieberman firmly ruled out any cooperation with Netanyahu, saying, "Netanyahu, as far as I'm concerned, is not allowed to be even a minister in my government, including regional cooperation."

Lieberman also targeted Yair Golan, head of the Democratic Party, saying, "I would be happy to compliment him, just if he would be silent. That is his greatest contribution to our victory." He emphasized that there is enough agreement among opposition parties on key issues such as limiting the prime minister to two terms, military conscription laws, and constitutional matters. However, he criticized frequent discussions about a Palestinian state or evacuating settlements as "complete madness" and accused such topics of serving Netanyahu's interests.

Regarding the possibility of the Democratic Party holding senior ministerial portfolios, Lieberman was unequivocal: "No and no. Security, internal security, or justice portfolios in their hands are simply unacceptable." In response, Yair Golan accused Lieberman of serving Netanyahu's divisive campaign and attempting to delegitimize the Democratic Party to help Netanyahu return to power. Golan urged unity within the opposition bloc to defeat Netanyahu and then debate policy within the government.

The political tensions highlight the deep divisions within the Israeli opposition ahead of the elections, with Lieberman positioning himself as a key figure opposing Netanyahu and skeptical of cooperation with certain parties. The election outcome and coalition negotiations remain critical in shaping Israel's next government.