Avigdor Lieberman Criticizes Political Alliances and Reveals Personal Side in Maariv Podcast

In a recent interview on the Maariv podcast hosted by Miki Levin, Avigdor Lieberman presented himself as the most experienced candidate for Prime Minister. He sharply criticized the political alliance between Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett, as well as their meetings with Mansour Abbas, emphasizing his opposition to such coalitions. Lieberman accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of distracting the public with debates over coalition formations, urging focus instead on the October 7 massacre, internal security failures, and rising crime.

Lieberman highlighted the diversity within his party, Israel Beiteinu, citing members like Oded Forer, a sixth or seventh-generation Israeli, and Hamad Amar, a Druze who has long represented the party in the Knesset. He reaffirmed that Israel Beiteinu is the only authentic right-wing party. Reflecting on his tenure as Defense Minister, Lieberman criticized the decision to accept a ceasefire with Hamas and Qatari funding, which he said sacrificed long-term national security for short-term calm. He recalled resigning over this issue, stating the ceasefire was a strategic mistake.

On a personal note, Lieberman spoke about his life in a mixed household and his own religious practices, noting he fasts three times a year on Yom Kippur, Tisha B'Av, and the Fast of Gedaliah, not solely for religious reasons but as a form of respect. He also mentioned the symbolic significance of the statues of Herzl, Jabotinsky, and Trumpeldor in the party's headquarters, all of whom were staunch atheists.

The interview sheds light on Lieberman’s political stance, his critique of current leadership, and his personal values, positioning him as a seasoned and principled figure in Israeli politics.